Abstract

Introduction: The absence of robust and unambiguous diagnostic markers may at the present time allow the symptoms of chronic prostatitis to overlap with those of other conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether significant changes in the ratios of Zn/Br, Zn/Fe, Zn/Rb, and Zn/Sr concentrations in prostatic fluid can aid in the recognition of an inflamed prostate. Methods: Prostatic fluid levels of Br, Fe, Rb, Sr and Znwere prospectively evaluated in 33 patients with chronic prostatitis and also in 42 healthy males. Measurements were performed using 109Cd radionuclide-induced energy dispersive X-ray fluorescent microanalysis. The results allowed values of the Zn/Br, Zn/Fe, Zn/Rb, and Zn/Sr concentration ratios to be calculated. Results: It was observed that in the inflamed prostates the ratios of Zn/Br, Zn/Fe, and Zn/Rb significantly decreased in a comparison with those normal prostates.