The prostate gland, seminal vesicles, and the vasa deferentia

The prostate is a part of the male anatomy. It surrounds the urethra, and lies immediately inferior to the urinary bladder. There is no analogous structure in female anatomy.

Structurally it is a chestnut-shaped bulb divided into concentric zones around the urethra. The prostate is comprised of approximately 30% glandular and 70% fibromuscular stromal elements. Common diseases include:  Prostate cancer, prostatitis, BPH, prostatism, and less commonly abscess.  Diagnostic evaluation is initially via rectal examination and the evaluation of a blood test called the PSA – prostate specific antigen.  Common modalities used for imaging the prostate include:  Ultrasound, MRI, CT scan.

Whereas ultrasound is able to characterize the lesion and provide guidance for biopsy, it is unable to consistently visualise lymph nodes and hence CT is necessary for staging.  The combination of the two modalities is required.  PET CT is even more helpful.

Treatments Medical treatment includes the use of hormonal agents, antibiotics, and chemo therapy although in severe disease surgery and radiation are commonly employed.

Description

The prostate is a part of the male anatomy. It surrounds the urethra, and lies immediately inferior to the urinary bladder. There is no analogous structure in female anatomy.

Structurally it is a chestnut-shaped bulb divided into concentric zones around the urethra. The prostate is comprised of approximately 30% glandular and 70% fibromuscular stromal elements. Common diseases include:  Prostate cancer, prostatitis, BPH, prostatism, and less commonly abscess.  Diagnostic evaluation is initially via rectal examination and the evaluation of a blood test called the PSA – prostate specific antigen.  Common modalities used for imaging the prostate include:  Ultrasound, MRI, CT scan.

Whereas ultrasound is able to characterize the lesion and provide guidance for biopsy, it is unable to consistently visualise lymph nodes and hence CT is necessary for staging.  The combination of the two modalities is required.  PET CT is even more helpful.

Treatments Medical treatment includes the use of hormonal agents, antibiotics, and chemo therapy although in severe disease surgery and radiation are commonly employed.