Chronic Prostatitis and Autoimmunity

Prostatitis can be categorized either as chronic bacterial or chronic prostatitis (CP), also known as chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) or pelvic myoneuropathy. Aside from these two types, the condition can also be classified as acute or asymptomatic inflammatory. The disease is defined as any form of inflammation of the prostate gland. This disease can affect both young and middle aged men.

Chronic bacterial prostatitis is a condition involving recurrent urinary tract infections originating from an infection in the prostate. Chronic prostatitis, on the other hand, can be inflammatory or non-inflammatory. Autoimmune and neurogenic inflammation have been theorized as the main factors behind CPPS. Neurogenic inflammation can be the result of dysregulation of the local nervous system which can be due to past traumatic experiences. An anxious disposition or unconscious pelvic tensing can also lead to neurogenic inflammation.

Men who suffer from prostatitis might feel pain during urination or ejaculation. CP/CPPS is believed to be the result of an autoimmune process or chronic inflammation that resulted from a breakdown of immunoregulatory mechanisms in the area around the prostate. A number of reasons have been identified to cause autoimmunity. These reasons include bacterial, fungal or viral infection, toxin exposure, physical trauma, genetics, stress and diet.

Infection that causes autoimmune reactions can be caused by a virus, bacteria or fungi. It can also be caused by parasites and normal bacterial flora. Researchers have also found that a persistent, ongoing infection can result to an autoimmune reaction. Aside from these organisms, antibiotics have also been implicated in autoimmunity. A study in 1999 reported that certain chemicals can cause genetic reshuffling or the activation of part of the immune system which can cause fatigue, rashes and muscle pain.

Another factor implicated in autoimmune reaction is physical trauma. One example of this is vasectomy. It is a well known fact that vasectomy often leads to an autoimmune reaction primarily due to the possibility of exposing the body's tissues to sperm through the incisions made during the operation. Diet is also believed to play a role in the development of autoimmune conditions. Several experiments that have been conducted showed that a diet rich in proteins, minerals and vitamins can lower a man's chances of developing an autoimmune disease.

Researchers also believe that susceptibility to autoimmune reactions can run in families, proving the theory of genetic predisposition in relation to CPPS and chronic bacterial prostatitis. Aside from genetics, psychological factors have also been implicated in the development of autoimmune conditions, with psychological stress being the primary factor linked with autoimmunity.

Chronic prostatitis is caused by a host of factors ranging from those found in the environment to elements that are beyond the control of man. With the onset of research studies supported by modern methods and techniques, this condition has become more controllable and this could only be good news to men all around the world.

About the Author:
Trevor Mulholland
Mensglands.com provides you with info on chronic prostatitis, its treatments and symptoms and how to overcome or reduce the risk of getting it. http://www.mensglands.com/
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