Is prostate calcification serious?

Prostatic calcification can be either physiological or pathological. Physiological calcification primarily results from crystallization of prostatic fluid secreted by the prostate gland—for instance, infrequent secretion or outflow may lead to crystal accumulation and subsequent calcification. Such physiological calcification is asymptomatic and requires no treatment.

Pathological calcification, by contrast, represents scar tissue left behind after resolution of prostatic inflammation and may ultimately develop into prostatic calculi (stones).

Prostatic calculi are commonly associated with chronic prostatitis; therefore, when calcification is detected, prompt evaluation is essential, and antibiotic therapy may be required. Chronic prostatitis often necessitates treatment with traditional Chinese patent medicines. Moreover, these calculi provide a favorable environment for bacterial growth, making them a key factor contributing to recurrent and persistent episodes of prostatitis.