Prostate

Gland of the male reproductive system

Diagram of the male reproductive system, showing the location of the prostate gland.

The prostate is a gland of the male reproductive system in most mammals. It is located just below the urinary bladder and surrounds the urethra. The prostate plays a crucial role in the production of semen, contributing fluids that nourish and protect sperm.

Anatomy

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that is part of the male reproductive system. It is located in the pelvis, below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine and semen exit the body.

Illustration of the lobes of the prostate.

Zones and Lobes

The prostate is divided into several zones and lobes. The most common anatomical classification divides the prostate into the peripheral zone, central zone, and transition zone. Each zone has distinct histological and functional characteristics.

Diagram showing the zones of the prostate.

• Peripheral Zone: This is the largest zone and is located at the back of the prostate. It is the area most commonly affected by prostate cancer.
• Central Zone: This zone surrounds the ejaculatory ducts and is less commonly affected by cancer.
• Transition Zone: This zone surrounds the urethra and is the region where benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) typically occurs.

Blood Supply

The prostate receives its blood supply from the internal iliac artery.

Branches of the internal iliac artery, which supply blood to the prostate.

Histology

The prostate is composed of glandular and stromal tissue. The glandular tissue is responsible for the production of prostatic fluid, while the stromal tissue provides structural support.

Histological section of the prostate showing glandular and stromal tissue.

Glandular Structure

The glandular component of the prostate consists of numerous small glands that secrete prostatic fluid. This fluid is a component of semen and plays a role in sperm motility and viability.

Histology of a normal prostate gland.

Corpora Amylacea

Within the prostate, small calcifications known as corpora amylacea can be found. These are more common in older men and are generally considered benign.

Corpora amylacea in the prostate.

Function

The primary function of the prostate is to produce a fluid that, together with sperm cells from the testicles and fluids from other glands, makes up semen. The prostatic fluid is slightly alkaline, which helps to neutralize the acidity of the vaginal tract, prolonging the lifespan of sperm.

Clinical Significance

The prostate is subject to several common medical conditions, including:

• Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate, which can be acute or chronic.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that can cause urinary symptoms.
• Prostate Cancer: A common cancer in men, particularly affecting the peripheral zone of the prostate.

Related Pages

• Prostate cancer
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia
• Prostatitis
• Male reproductive system