Prostate Gland Anatomy and Function
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Questions and Answers

Which structure lies directly above the prostate gland?

  • Levator ani muscles
  • Rectum
  • Urethra
  • Bladder (correct)

What anatomical structure separates the prostate from the rectum?

  • Puboprostatic ligaments
  • Rectovesical fascia (correct)
  • Urogenital diaphragm
  • Pubic symphysis

Which structure is found inferiorly to the prostate gland?

  • Urogenital diaphragm (correct)
  • Pubic symphysis
  • Rectum
  • Bladder neck

Which muscles flank the prostate gland laterally?

<p>Levator ani muscles (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which position does the urethra pass through the prostate gland?

<p>Medially (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of semen volume does prostatic fluid contribute?

<p>20-30% (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which zone of the prostate gland is the primary site for the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?

<p>Transition Zone (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component of the prostatic fluid helps neutralize the acidic environment of the vagina?

<p>Alkaline substances (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in prostatic fluid?

<p>Facilitates the liquefaction of semen (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How much volume does the peripheral zone occupy in a young male prostate?

<p>70% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the weight range of a healthy adult male prostate gland?

<p>20-30 grams (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which zone of the prostate is more resistant to inflammation and carcinoma?

<p>Central Zone (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of tissue primarily composes the anterior fibromuscular stroma of the prostate?

<p>Smooth muscle and fibrous tissue (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What sits above the prostate?

The bladder is positioned superiorly to the prostate.

What separates the prostate from the rectum?

The rectovesical fascia acts as a barrier between the prostate and the rectum.

What part of the urethra is associated with the prostate?

The prostatic urethra passes through the center of the prostate.

What is the clinical significance of the rectum's proximity to the prostate?

The close proximity of the rectum allows for digital rectal examination (DRE) to assess the prostate.

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What structures flank the prostate laterally?

The levator ani muscles, part of the pelvic floor, are located on either side of the prostate.

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Prostate Gland

A small, walnut-shaped gland in males that produces prostatic fluid, a component of semen, and helps control urine flow.

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Prostatic Fluid

A milky, alkaline fluid produced by the prostate gland that contributes to semen volume and supports sperm.

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Prostate Function

Produces prostatic fluid, which nourishes and protects sperm, helps liquefy semen, and contributes to controlling urine flow.

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Peripheral Zone (PZ)

The largest zone of the prostate, located posteriorly and laterally, where most prostate cancers originate.

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Central Zone (CZ)

The zone surrounding the ejaculatory ducts, less prone to inflammation and cancer than the PZ.

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Transition Zone (TZ)

The zone near the urethra, which enlarges with age leading to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, primarily affecting the transition zone, causing urinary problems in older men.

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Anterior Fibromuscular Stroma

The non-glandular part of the prostate composed of muscle and fibrous tissue, providing support and contributing to its contractile function.

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Study Notes

Prostate Gland Anatomy and Function

  • Description: The prostate is a walnut-shaped male reproductive gland, ~20-30 grams, 3 cm long, 4 cm wide, and 2 cm thick. It's located in the male pelvis, below the bladder and surrounding the prostatic urethra. Fibrous capsule surrounds the firm, partially muscular gland.

Prostate Function

  • Semen Production: Contributes 20-30% of semen volume, producing prostatic fluid, essential for sperm viability.
  • Nutrition: Provides nutrients like citric acid, enzymes, and zinc.
  • Protection: Alkaline nature neutralizes vaginal acidity, promoting sperm survival.
  • Motility/Liquefaction: Enzymes such as PSA liquify semen, improving sperm movement.
  • Urine Control: Muscular stroma part of internal urethral sphincter, controlling urine flow.

Zonal Anatomy

  • Peripheral Zone (PZ): Largest zone (~70%), located posteriorly and laterally. Common site of prostate cancer due to high glandular density.
  • Central Zone (CZ): (~25%), surrounds ejaculatory ducts, less prone to inflammation and cancer than PZ.
  • Transition Zone (TZ): (~5% in younger men, enlarges with age). Primary site of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
  • Anterior Fibromuscular Stroma: Non-glandular, smooth muscle and fibrous tissue, providing structural support and contraction.

Surrounding Structures

  • Superiorly: Bladder, connected via the bladder neck to the prostatic urethra.
  • Inferiorly: Urogenital diaphragm, supporting pelvic organs.
  • Posteriorly: Rectum (separated by rectovesical fascia), allowing digital rectal examination (DRE) for prostate assessment.
  • Anteriorly: Pubic symphysis, connected via puboprostatic ligaments.
  • Laterally: Levator ani muscles of the pelvic floor.
  • Medially: Urethra passes through the center, ejaculatory ducts traversing to prostatic urethra.

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Description

Explore the anatomy and functions of the prostate gland, including its role in semen production, nutrient provision, and urine control. This quiz covers the zones of the prostate, emphasizing the importance of each in male reproductive health.

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