The prostate is an important gland in males and is found in most mammals.
It is often described as the size of a walnut.
It is located just below the bladder.
The prostate gland helps in the production of semen, a fluid that helps transport and nourish sperm.
It is considered an exocrine gland of the male reproduction system .
Women do not have a prostate, however, the Skene’s gland in women is the homologous organ.
Function
The primary function of the prostate is semen production, a milky or white and alkaline substance.
The prostate contributes to approximately 30% of the semen production.
Another large portion comes from the seminal vesicles and the spermatozoa.
Regulation
Control of the prostate is done through a hormones, androgen or male hormones, or often referred to as testosterone
Location
It surrounds the urethra just below the bladder.
It can be felt during a rectal exam.
The prostate can be divided in two ways: by Zone or by Lobe
Zones
Peripheral Zone
- Posterior aspect of the prostate
- Surrounds the distal Uretha
- Approximately 70% of Prostate Cancers start from this Zone
Central Zone
- Surrounds the ejaculatory ducts
- Approximately 3% of Prostate Cancers
- If prostate cancer arises in this area the cancer is often more aggressive and can invade the seminal vesicles.
Transition Zone
- Surrounds the Proximal Urethra
- Continues to grow throughout life
- Responsible for the benign enlargement of the prostate
- 10-20% of Prostate Cancers
Anterior Fibromuscular Zone
- Is usually without any glandular components
- Only has muscle and fibrous tissue
Lobes
1.) Anterior lobe or Isthmus - Corresponds mostly with the Transitional Zone
2.) Posterior lobe - Corresponds mostly with the Peripheral Zone
3.) Lateral lobes - Spans all Zones
4.) Median lobes - Corresponds mostly with the Central Zone
Main Diseases or Conditions of the Prostate
1.) Prostate Cancer
2.) Prostatitis