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Prostate is an important Gland in males and it is also found in most mammals.

The Prostate the size of a walnut and 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

Different Zones or Tissues:

1.)  Peripheral Zone

–  Posterior aspect of the prostate
–  Surrounds the distal Uretha
–  Approximately 70% of Prostate Cancers start from this Zone

2.)  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.

3.) Transition Zone

–  Surrounds the Proximal Urethra
–  Continues to grow throughout life
–  Responsible for the benign enlargement of the prostate
–  10-20% of Prostate Cancers

4.)  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

3.)   Benign Prostate Hyperplasia