Prostate Gland Anatomy and Function

Which structure lies directly above the prostate gland?

What anatomical structure separates the prostate from the rectum?

Which structure is found inferiorly to the prostate gland?

Which muscles flank the prostate gland laterally?

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

What percentage of semen volume does prostatic fluid contribute?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.