NIDDK-sponsored chronic prostatitis collaborative research network (CPCRN) 5-year data and treatment guidelines for bacterial prostatitis.

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a disabling condition that is poorly understood. The National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases-sponsored Collaborative Research Network has developed a symptom index, formed a cohort study, a case control study, a full-scale randomised clinical trial, a resource utilisation study and clinical trials, as well as basic research studies, in an effort to better understand and manage patients with this condition. Cohort, case control and resource utilisation studies have confirmed the substantial impact of CP/CPPS. Clinical trials in basic research suggest that anti-inflammatory therapy and alpha-blocker therapy may be effective. The minority of patients with acute or chronic bacterial prostatitis continues to respond favourably to oral fluoroquinolone therapy.