Diarrhea after Prostate Biopsy

Hello. I am new here. This appears to be a wonderful message board. I am 62 years old, have an enlarged prostate, and had my PSA measured for the first time recently at 12.1. On March 19, 2018 I had a prostate biopsy. The biopsy results are not yet available.

For the two days prior to the biopsy, I took an oral antibiotic. During the biopsy, I was given an antibiotic (Rocephin) by I.V. There was no additional antibiotic after the biopsy.

I have never had any regularity issues; neither constipation nor diarrhea. There was nothing in the post-op warnings or instructions about possible diarrhea. The only related instruction was: “you may return to normal diet as tolerated .. force fluids so that you are drinking 2 to 3 quarts of liquid over the next 24 hours.”

Ever since the biopsy 11 days ago, I have had diarrhea. At first it was explosive and watery, then gradually firmed a bit, but was still diarrhea. Last Saturday afternoon (6 days ago / 5 days after the biopsy), I thought my system had improved enough to allow me to eat a “regular meal.” So, I met some friends at a seafood restaurant and ate a spicy (blackened) fish dish and baked potato. I likely made things even worse by having a beer. Things seemed OK when I went to bed that night. The next morning I was back to explosive watery diarrhea again.

There is no noticeable blood in the diarrhea. There is no strong odor to the diarrhea. In fact, it strangely has no odor at all. I have no fever, as I have measured my temperature multiple times and it has been normal each time. I have lost 7 pounds so far on this unintended diet, although I am overweight and can easily afford to lose the pounds.

After 11 days, this diarrhea is getting old. I have never taken probiotics before, but I started just two days ago, under the presumption that the antibiotics killed off the good bacteria in my intestines. Things have not yet firmed up much. My diet now consists of broth, bananas, and an occasional protein drink. I do try my best to drink plenty of fluids.

1. Do others have experience with diarrhea after a prostate biopsy? Is this rare? Common?
2. Is taking probiotics a good idea? If yes, how long should it take for the diarrhea to go away?
3. Any other suggestions, insights or words to the wise are appreciated.

Thank you.

When I had my biopsy I also experienced diarrhea, but only for about 3 days. The antibiotic you took most likely is the cause. My internist had me start a particular probiotic and the condition improved the next day. I think you should contact the urologist and get his opinion.

losing weight due to diarrhea is an emergency. Call the on-call doctor.

Andrew

What you have sounds like a classic C. Diff gut infection which can be very serious. I got it after my prostate biopsy and it took some time to cure, via another antibiotic VANCO.

A simple stool sample is all that’s required for conclusive diagnoses but your symptoms are so classic they may start you on medication immediately. They did, me.

Please get to a gastroenterologist or infectious disease specialist immediately. C. Diff is quite nasty 😷.