Emphysematous prostatic abscess due to candidiasis: A case report and review of the literature

RATIONALE: The emphysematous prostatic abscess is a rare but potentially life-threatening clinical condition. The early diagnosis is difficult due to nonspecific symptoms. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 72-year-old man with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus was admitted to hospital because of dysuria and acute urine retention. He had a refractory fever after admission. DIAGNOSES: The diagnosis of emphysematous prostatic abscess was confirmed by culture of catheterized urine and pelvic CT. INTERVENTIONS: We tried to give antimicrobial treatment and control of blood glucose at first, but the infection could not be controlled by antibiotic therapy and control of blood glucose. TRUS-guided aspiration was performed, but obviously not adequate for abscess drainage and the abscess progressed. TUR was then performed and the infection was gradually controlled. OUTCOMES: Pelvic CT scan 1 month after discharge showed complete resolution of the EPA. LESSONS: Given the poor conservative treatment effect of emphysematous prostatic abscesses, CT or TRUS should be performed in the patients with suspected diagnosis. Early and appropriate drainage with proper antibiotic therapy is important to achieve a favorable outcome.