The 2-Glass Test in Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS) and Chronic Prostatitis (CP) is not typically used in the UK. Instead cystoscopy, semen, urine, PSA, MRI, X-ray and ultrasound tests are more common. The initial treatment is very often a course antibiotics, ranging from 4-12 weeks and longer in some cases. Yet bacteria is present in less than 5% of all cases of CPPS or CP! So why are antibiotics still dished out so freely!? I have written on numerous occasions about my frustrations on this course of treatment (here, here and here.) I am very, very pleased to say that patients in the UK are finally now able to get this test. And its available on the NHS!
Where can I get a 2-Glass Test?
Jordan Durrant is Consultant Urological Surgeon at East Surrey Hospital (part of Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust). He has an interest in kidney stone and prostate surgery, the management of recurrent urinary infections and the investigation and management of CPPS and associated conditions.
Mr Durrant trained in Urology at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge. He is now pleased to be offering a service for CPPS patients in the Surrey area and beyond. Jordan believes that one of the key roles of the Urologist in finding long-term solutions for CPPS is to offer an in-depth consultation. To really hear the patient’s side of the story and to find out whether there are any other factors or symptoms surrounding the condition that require investigation and exploration. Further investigation may include cystoscopy, ‘2-Glass Test’ cultures, MRI or Ultrasound scans.
Why should I get a 2-Glass Test?
Sometimes, investigation leads to diagnoses of musculo-skeletal issues, spinal stenosis or identifiable infection – which require treatment. However, Mr Durrant feels that ‘negative’ investigations (ie. nothing found on tests) are very useful as well and can serve as an excellent ‘jumping off point’ to begin treatments that can bring meaningful solutions for CPPS. Mr Durrant has links locally with a Chronic Pain Management Specialist, but also has a keen interest in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy techniques and Meditation as management strategies.
How do I book a 2-Glass Test?
It is possible to request an outpatient appointment with Mr Durrant at East Surrey Hospital, via a GP through the NHS ‘Choose and Book’ system. The clinic will potentially be most useful for men who have been experiencing symptoms of CPPS, penile pain, ‘hard/flaccid’ or associated conditions for several months and who have already had basic investigations. Previous results from scans, urine cultures, PSA blood tests etc. will be required.
We should offer a big thank you to Mr Durrant for offering this service. I hope this is the tipping point for change in the current treatment of men suffering with CPPS and CP
Karl Monahan is the owner of The Pelvic Pain Clinic, London. He has been successfully treating male pelvic pain since 2009. His depth of knowledge and personal experience on the subject provides his patients with a compassionate approach rarely found. His holistic approach to treating male pelvic pain addresses, lifestyle, diet, exercise, stress management and therapeutic movement. The clinics approach is very much aimed at empowering the patient, teaching them the tools and techniques to manage and reduce their own symptoms allowing them to be the driver in their own recovery and not just a passenger. www.thepelvicpainclinic.co.uk