Understanding Lab Tests for Prostatitis
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland that can cause urinary symptoms, pelvic pain, and discomfort. While the diagnosis of prostatitis is primarily based on symptoms and physical examination, laboratory testing plays a crucial role in identifying underlying infections, assessing inflammation levels, and guiding appropriate treatment.
Top Recommended Test
Culture, Urine, Routine
This test identifies bacterial infections that may be causing prostatitis. Since bacterial prostatitis requires antibiotic treatment, detecting the presence of bacteria in urine helps determine if the inflammation has an infectious cause and guides appropriate therapy.
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Why Lab Testing is Important for Prostatitis
Although there isn't a single blood test that definitively diagnoses prostatitis, laboratory testing is fundamental for determining whether the inflammation is caused by a bacterial infection, monitoring prostate-specific markers that may be elevated due to inflammation, and identifying specific pathogens that require targeted treatment.
Other Relevant Tests
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) (MALES ONLY)
PSA levels often become elevated during prostatitis due to inflammation of the prostate tissue. This test helps monitor the degree of prostate inflammation and can be used to track response to treatment over time.
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Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), Ultrasensitive, Post Prostatectomy (MALES ONLY)
This highly sensitive PSA test can detect even small elevations in PSA levels caused by prostate inflammation or infection. It provides detailed monitoring of prostate inflammation, particularly useful for tracking treatment response.
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Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), Free and Total (MALES ONLY)
This comprehensive PSA test measures both free and total PSA levels. During prostatitis, inflammation causes PSA to leak into the bloodstream, raising total PSA levels. The ratio of free to total PSA can help differentiate inflammation from other prostate conditions.
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Trichomonas vaginalis RNA, Qualitative, TMA (Male)
This test specifically detects Trichomonas vaginalis, a parasitic infection that can cause prostatitis. Since this parasite can cause swelling and inflammation of the prostate gland, testing helps identify this specific infectious cause that requires targeted antiparasitic treatment.
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Understanding Your Test Results
Elevated PSA levels in the context of prostatitis symptoms typically indicate inflammation rather than cancer. A positive urine culture suggests bacterial prostatitis, while detection of specific pathogens like Trichomonas indicates the need for targeted treatment. Your healthcare provider will interpret these results alongside your symptoms and physical examination findings.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. PSA levels can be elevated for various reasons, and proper medical evaluation is essential for accurate interpretation.
