Acute bacterial prostatitis is caused by:
**Core Concept**
Acute bacterial prostatitis is a type of prostate infection caused by the invasion of bacteria into the prostatic tissue, leading to inflammation and infection. This condition is often associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) and can be life-threatening if left untreated.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Acute bacterial prostatitis is typically caused by gram-negative bacteria, such as *Escherichia coli* (E. coli), which are commonly found in the urinary tract. These bacteria can ascend from the urethra into the prostate gland through the prostatic ducts, causing infection. The infection can lead to symptoms such as fever, chills, urinary frequency, and pain in the lower back and perineum. The bacteria can multiply rapidly in the prostatic tissue, causing inflammation and tissue damage.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Staphylococcus aureus is a gram-positive bacterium that can cause skin and soft tissue infections, but it is not a common cause of acute bacterial prostatitis.
**Option B:** Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a gram-negative bacterium that can cause UTIs, but it is not typically associated with acute bacterial prostatitis.
**Option C:** Klebsiella pneumoniae is a gram-negative bacterium that can cause UTIs, but it is not a common cause of acute bacterial prostatitis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Acute bacterial prostatitis requires prompt antibiotic treatment, and empiric therapy should cover common pathogens such as E. coli. It is essential to obtain a urine culture and prostatic fluid culture to guide antibiotic therapy.
**Correct Answer: C. E. coli**