18 Prostate Diseases
Basic Anatomy
Prostate Proper
• Glandular growth and maturation controlled by testosterone, which is converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by 5-alpha reductase
• Middle lobe: most common site of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), process arising in the periurethral transitional zone
• Anatomical parts: base, apex, four surfaces
Anterior surface: retropubic, with largely transverse musculature, forms a rhabdosphincter (hemisphincter)
• Supported anteriorly by puboprostatic ligaments, central portions of the pubococcygeus, part of the levator ani muscles (anterior pelvic diaphragm)
• Supported inferiorly by the urogenital diaphragm (transversus perinei muscle and fascia), through which the urethra passes
Prostatic Capsule(s)
• Prostatic (true) capsule: thin, dense, fibrous connective tissue enclosing parenchyma and surrounded by—
Prostatic Ducts and Urethra
• Seminal colliculus (verumontanum) in posterior urethral wall marks location of paired ejaculatory ducts draining ductus deferens and seminal vesicles.