Prostate cancer misdiagnosed as prostatic abscess: case report and literature review

Abstract Background As one of the most common malignant tumors in men, prostate cancer (PCa) has garnered substantial research investment from the medical community. However, due to multiple challenges in diagnostic techniques and clinical practice, cases of missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis still persist. Case presentation This article presents a case of a 36-year-old male patient who had undergone kidney transplantation. Initially, he was misdiagnosed with a prostatic abscess (PA) due to symptoms such as perineal heaviness and mild tenesmus. However, the diagnosis was later confirmed as PCa through surgical intervention. Conclusions This case highlights the similarities in symptoms and imaging manifestations between PCa and PA, as well as the complexity involved in diagnosing PCa. Furthermore, it underscores the significance for clinicians to rationally utilize clinical examination methods, remain vigilant about the heightened risk of malignancies following kidney transplantation, and enhance their ability to differentiate and diagnose prostate cancer. These efforts contribute to accumulating experience for the early diagnosis of PCa.