The altered brain structure and function in patients with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome: a neuroimaging study

Motivation: Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is mainly characterized by persistent pain and discomfort in the pelvic region, which seriously affects the young and middle-aged men in China. Goal(s): Further exploration of the central mechanisms is essential to gain a deeper understanding of this chronic pain condition. Approach: This study, based on multimodal MRI and combined with clinical questionnaires and scales, adopts a cross-sectional design to systematically analyze the changes in gray matter and resting-state functional connectivity abnormalities. Results: The structure and function of the striatum are altered in CP/CPPS patients. Impact: The study results provide objective evidence of cerebral abnormalities to further understand the central pathophysiological mechanisms of CP/CPPS. They also offer valuable neuroimaging-based insights for future clinical advancements in precise diagnosis and treatment of CP/CPPS.