Prostate zones. The structure and functions of the prostate gland zones: detailed characteristics. Internal structure of the prostate gland

The prostate gland, or prostate, is one of the most important organs of the male body, located in the pelvic cavity. It provides a man with not only physical, but also psychological health, since the ability to intimacy and reproduction. Diseases of this organ occur in older patients and can cause painful urination, weakened potency and infertility.

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Anatomy and functions of the prostate gland

The prostate is an exocrine gland. This means that its secretion is released outside, and not into the blood. It is located in the very middle of the small pelvis. In front of it is the pubic symphysis, behind it is the rectum, in the upper part it borders on the bladder and, and from below it is supported by the pelvic floor muscles. The upper part of the urethra passes through it ( urethra) and the ejaculatory duct. This arrangement leads to impaired urination and weakened potency during inflammation of the prostate gland.

Location of the prostate gland

The prostate has several sections in its structure:

The anterior, inferolateral and posterior surface, which includes the groove dividing the gland into two parts.
The right and left lobes are connected by an isthmus (often called the middle lobe).
The apex and base, which fuses with the bladder in front and borders with the seminal vesicles in the back.

Internal anatomy of the prostate:

Parenchyma is glandular tissue consisting of acini (lobules) - structural units of the gland in which prostatic secretion is produced. Their number varies from 30 to 50. The acini form 15–20 ducts that flow into the urethra along with the vas deferens. The parenchyma is divided into three zones:
- Central, located next to the bladder.
- Transitional (middle).
- Peripheral, located away from the bladder.
2. Fibromuscular stroma, consisting of muscle and connective tissue and occupying about 30% of the area of the entire gland. It is responsible for maintaining the parenchyma.

Functions

Prostatic secretion contains:

testosterone is a sex hormone;
PSA (prostate-specific antigen) is a tumor marker, the indicator of which increases with the occurrence of various pathologies of the prostate gland;
sodium citrate - a substance that prevents the formation of calcifications (stones);
, ensuring normal sperm motility;
enzymes;
vitamins;
prostaglandins, immunoglobulins and lysozyme are substances that support local immunity.

The main functions of the prostate are:

Secretory. Prostatic secretion liquefies the ejaculate, which ensures full sperm motility.
Motor. The gland ensures ejaculation and also prevents the discharge of urine from the bladder during periods between trips to the toilet and during sexual intercourse.
Barrier. The substances contained in the secretion prevent the development of ascending infection from the urethra to the higher organs.

Organ size depending on age

All boys have a prostate gland, the weight of which does not exceed a few grams. Her active growth observed during puberty, by the age of 20 it reaches its natural size. With age, the iron continues to gradually increase. This process can be either normal or a sign of disease.

Normal prostate parameters between the ages of 25 and 40 are presented in the table:

For an adult man aged 25 years, the volume of the prostate is approximately 19.6 cm³, and after 50 years - 22.9 cm³. Such growth is completely natural for the human body. At 60 years of age, the norm is considered to be not more than 30 cm³ .

In old age (from 65 to 70 years and above), constant fluctuations in hormonal levels occur, which provokes rapid growth of the gland. This process is accompanied by pressure on the bladder and narrowing of the lumen of the ureter. Therefore, patients constantly experience a feeling of a full bladder and difficulty emptying it.

The growth of the prostate gland, which within a short time has reached the upper limits of normal or has passed beyond them, indicates the development of a pathological process. The danger is that it is not always accompanied by obvious symptoms; sometimes it occurs hidden.

Diagnostic methods

A urologist examines the patient for presence. The examination scheme includes conducting a survey and palpating the gland - determining its condition by touch through the rectum. Additional methods are used to confirm the diagnosis.

The main methods for diagnosing the prostate gland are presented in the table:

Method	Description	Photo
Palpation	Thanks to the examination, the doctor can determine the elasticity of the tissue, the presence or absence of pain, and also feel for various seals or nodules
Ultrasound examination (ultrasound)	Ultrasound of the prostate is done in two ways: 1. Transabdominal - through the stomach. The disadvantage of this method is the difficulty of conducting research in obese people. 2. Transrectal (TRUS) - through the rectum. The method allows you to determine the size of the prostate gland with an accuracy of 100% and is suitable for people of different sizes. Ultrasound can provide a clear image of the prostate, which is necessary for a doctor to make an accurate diagnosis.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)	This method is the most informative, as it allows you to find the smallest changes in the prostate gland, which is inaccessible to ultrasound examination
Prostatography	X-ray of the prostate Lately It is performed less and less frequently, as there are more modern diagnostic methods. The study involves injecting a contrast agent into the bladder through a catheter. This helps to distinguish the gland from other organs. The image allows you to determine the size of the organ and its structure

Normal organ parameters according to ultrasound

Only a qualified urologist can decipher ultrasound data. A presumptive diagnosis is made based on several indicators:

The main linear parameters are volume, longitudinal, transverse and anteroposterior dimensions.
Contours of the gland. Normally, they should be clear and even.
Echogenicity is a signal reflected from an organ. A healthy gland has an average value. A high score indicates chronic inflammation, and a low score indicates the presence of an acute disease.
Structure of the gland lobules. Normally it is homogeneous. A coarse-grained or fine-grained structure indicates the development of an inflammatory process.
Organ shape. In a healthy state it is semicircular. A curved or triangular shape indicates pathology.
The prostate ducts should be clearly defined.

Acceptable limits normal size prostate gland according to ultrasound data are presented in the table:

Formulas for determining gland size

To indicate the normal volume of the prostate, Gromov’s formula is used: O = B × 0.13 + 16.4, where “O” is the volume of the gland, and “B” is the patient’s age. Determining the mass of an organ involves multiplying the resulting volume by 1.05. These calculations are suitable for identifying the required values in men under 50 years of age.

To determine the volume of the gland, the truncated ellipse formula works, but this requires ultrasound data:

O=A×B×C×0.52, where “O” is the volume of the gland, “A” is the longitudinal value, “B” is the anteroposterior value, “C” is the transverse value.
O = C²×B×0.52, where “O” is the volume of the gland, “C” is the transverse value, “B” is the anteroposterior value. This formula is applied if the weight of the organ does not exceed 80 g.
O = C³×0.52, where “O” is the volume of the gland, “C” is the transverse size. The formula is suitable for organ weights greater than 80 g.

Major diseases

All affect the body’s performance of its basic functions. The main reasons for the development of pathologies are:

irregular sex life;
previous sexually transmitted infections;
age over 40 years;
hereditary predisposition;
prolonged intercourse;
delayed ejaculation;
frequent change of sexual partner;
hypothermia;
sedentary lifestyle;
errors in nutrition;
smoking and drinking alcohol.

Common prostate diseases are described in the table:

Disease	Symptoms	Treatment
Benign (BPH), or- benign growth of the glandular epithelium or stroma of an organ	weakness; weight loss; dry mouth; anemia; constipation; decreased appetite; smell of urine from the mouth; erectile disfunction; accelerated ejaculation; problems with urination	Therapy includes conservative methods (medication), surgery and non-surgical methods
Prostatitis- inflammatory disease of the prostate gland. It can occur in both acute and chronic forms and is the most common pathology of the male genitourinary system	pain; urinary disturbance; sexual dysfunction; increased body temperature, chills; general deterioration in health	taking antibacterial drugs; operation; physiotherapy; lifestyle correction; therapeutic enemas
Carcinoma (cancer) of the prostate- malignant neoplasm of prostate tissue	frequent urination with difficulty starting; weak and intermittent stream of urine; urinary incontinence; pain and burning during urination or ejaculation; the appearance of blood in urine or semen; pain in the lumbar region, perineum, pubis and pelvis; impotence; anuria (lack of urine); renal failure; constant dull pain in the ribs and spine (indicate the occurrence of metastases in them); swelling of the legs; weight loss; anemia; general exhaustion of the body	surgery (or testicular); taking hormonal medications; radiotherapy; chemotherapy
Prostate stones	pain during erection and ejaculation; painful sexual intercourse; pain in the groin area, radiating to the scrotum, buttocks, thighs, lower back, sacrum and abdomen; decreased sex drive; potency disorder; frequent and painful urination; pain during bowel movements; the appearance of blood in the ejaculate and urine	If the patient is not bothered by the presence of stones, then treatment is not required. When inflammation develops, medications are prescribed. If there is no effect from their use, surgical intervention is indicated

Conclusion

The prostate gland, located in the very center of the pelvis, affects the functioning of not only neighboring organs, but also the entire body as a whole. If it is enlarged, but does not go beyond normal limits, then this may be a sign of natural growth.

But if there is an intense increase in size that goes beyond normal limits, then it is necessary to undergo examination for the presence of diseases.

The prostate gland in men is called the “second heart”. Both sexual function, normal functioning of the urinary system, and psycho-emotional state depend on its full functioning. This is the main auxiliary sex gland of the man, performing an important secretory function.

Structural features

In a healthy man, the prostate is up to 25 cubic centimeters, which corresponds to 25 ml. The average density of the gland is 1.05 g/cm3. The iron reaches 3.2-4.5 cm in length, 3.5-5 cm in width, and 1.7-2.5 cm in thickness.

At different periods of a man's life, the shape and consistency of the prostate gland changes. Before puberty, the gland is small in size and consists mainly of muscle tissue. During puberty, the glandular component begins to appear. The prostate gland in adult men consists of glandular tissue, smooth muscle and connective tissue.

The shape of the prostate resembles a chestnut, divided in the center by a groove. The apex (the so-called narrowed part of the organ) is directed towards the diaphragm. Compared to it, the base of the gland is wider and is in contact with the bladder.

The anterior (facing the pubic area) and posterior parts of the organ (facing the intestine) have a concave shape and a smooth surface. On the sides there are rounded areas - lower pubic surfaces.

The prostate gland is located in the pelvic area between the rectum and pubis under the bottom of the bladder. The prostate partially encloses the urethra and the ejaculatory duct (ejaculatory duct).

Smooth muscle tissue can make up from a quarter to half of the total volume of the prostate, and the glandular component (from 30 to 50 glands) has ducts connected in pairs and open with holes (there can be from 15 to 25) along the edges of the seminal tubercle. The latter is located on the posterior wall of the urethra in the thickness of the prostate gland.

The seminal tubercle plays the role of a receptor zone and is responsible for the regulation of sexual arousal, as well as the onset of ejaculation and orgasm. Each lobe of the prostate is surrounded by bundles of smooth muscle fibers (arranged in longitudinal and circular layers). The smooth muscles of the gland are a single contractile system.

Prompt evacuation of secretions and normal urination depend on its work.

Blood and lymphatic vessels around the prostate

Outside, the prostate gland is surrounded by a fibrous capsule that has a fairly dense structure. Connective tissue septa are directed from it into the gland. The vessels surrounding the organ form the prostatic venous plexus, connected with the deep dorsal vein of the penis and the hemorrhoidal plexus of the rectum.

Lymph is distributed in the same way - it flows through vessels connected to the lymphatic vessels of the rectum and nearby organs. It is extremely important to maintain the normal operation of both systems, since otherwise the risk of microorganisms settling in the prostate gland, which can penetrate into it from the blood and lymph, increases.

It is these anatomical features that determine the fairly frequent occurrence of inflammatory processes in the prostate gland and the difficulty in treating infectious prostatitis.

Connection with the nervous system

The prostate gland is rich in nerve endings. We are talking about nerve fibers of the autonomic nervous system(sympathetic and parasympathetic), sensory nerves and endings.

Sympathetic stimulation is associated with ejaculation. Due to the fact that the sympathetic nerves are involved in the control of prostatic muscles, it is possible efficient use alpha-blockers during complex treatment adenomas.

On the other hand, the plexus of pelvic nerves in the case of inflammation of one of the organs allows the process to spread to other pelvic organs, resulting in complex pain syndromes (chronic pelvic pain).

Functions

The prostate gland performs three main functions:

Secretory exocrine - produces a secretion that dilutes sperm, activates sperm movement and ensures a normal level of acid-base balance.
Motor - the muscle tissue of the organ contracts rhythmically and releases prostatic secretion with sperm during ejaculation. The secret contains: zinc (provides antimicrobial activity of seminal fluid), hormones, fats, proteins, carbohydrates and enzymes necessary for the normal functioning of the reproductive system.
Barrier - prevents the penetration of microorganisms from the urethra into the upper urinary tract.

Among the secretion products of the prostatic glands, the most studied are: acid phosphatase, lemon acid and prostate specific antigen (PSA). It is the latter that is analyzed when studying the likelihood of developing prostate diseases. In particular, the risk of developing adenoma and cancer or the presence of a malignant formation is determined.

If at least one of the functions is disrupted, the genitourinary system suffers and reproductive function is disrupted. The prostate gland plays a huge role in the production of the main male sex hormone - testosterone.

Inside the prostate, this hormone is converted into dihydrotestosterone under the influence of a special enzyme (5-alpha reductase). Medications, affecting 5-alpha reductase, are used to treat prostate adenoma.

The prostate tissue also contains alpha-adrenergic receptors, which maintain the tone of the smooth muscles of the organ. This finds its application in the treatment of adenoma and prostatitis.

When cancer occurs, the prostate seriously increases in size - up to 300 ml or more. This indicates the presence of benign hyperplasia (ademoma) or malignant formation (cancer). It is difficult to independently assess the degree of enlargement of the prostate gland. It is recommended that this be done exclusively by a urologist during a rectal examination.

Through the anterior wall of the rectum, the specialist will palpate the surface of the prostate gland. Changes in its structure can be assessed with ultrasound-TRUS (transrectal ultrasound), with MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography) of the pelvic organs.

Research options

To assess the condition of the prostate gland and the presence of possible pathologies, a number of laboratory tests are carried out, including:

Urinalysis (received in three portions for research);
Examination of ejaculate (sperm);
Bacteriological examination of urine, semen and culture of prostate secretions.

If prostatitis is suspected, a medical examination begins with urine tests. Detailed information about the functioning of the urethra can be obtained from the first portion of urine received. In case it is fixed increased level leukocytes, this may indicate urethritis (inflammation of the urethra).

The norm is considered to be the number of leukocytes not exceeding 15 in the field of view in the first portion of urine after a four-hour delay in urination. The second portion of urine will tell you about the functioning of the bladder and kidneys. Accordingly, an increase in the number of leukocytes indicates an inflammatory process in the bladder (cystitis) or kidneys (pyelonephritis).

After receiving two portions of urine, the urologist performs a prostate massage in order to obtain its secretion, secreted from the external opening of the urethra. It is collected in a sterile tube or on a glass slide.

If the secretion after the massage could not be obtained in sufficient quantity for a full study (this indicates that the amount of secretion is small and it either entered the bladder or settled on the walls of the urethra), a third portion of urine is obtained and examined.

When it is necessary to check for the presence of an inflammatory process in the seminal vesicles, massage them and examine the urine. If necessary, check the functioning of the left and right seminal vesicles separately.

Diagnosis of pathologies

Prostate secretion or urine centrifuge is examined by microscopy. A drop of the research liquid is applied to a glass slide and examined under a microscope. Normally, there should be no more than 10 leukocytes in the field of view. If there are more of them, prostatitis may be diagnosed. Secretions and urine are also examined for the presence of lecithin grains (a decrease in their number may indicate functional insufficiency of the prostate gland), amyloid bodies, and epithelial cells.

In some cases, the doctor decides on a more detailed study: up to four massages are performed with an interval of 1-2 days. If necessary, the patient is prescribed alpha-blockers.

As part of the diagnosis of prostatitis and determination of the type of pathogenic microflora and the degree of sensitivity to antibiotics, a bacteriological study of prostate secretion (culture of prostate secretion) is performed.

Even if the growth of microflora was not confirmed by a single culture of prostate secretion or a third portion of urine, the presence of hidden foci of infection in the prostate cannot be ruled out one hundred percent. In this case, repeated examinations are carried out to accurately identify the causative agent of the inflammatory process.

In the presence of chronic prostatitis, auxiliary tests are performed. Among them is a study of the nature of crystallization of prostate secretions. Crystallization occurs due to the dependence of the shape of precipitated sodium chloride crystals on physical and chemical properties prostatic secretion.

If the crystallization process proceeds without disturbance, the crystals form a pattern resembling a fern leaf. In the presence of pathological changes in the prostate and in the presence of a chronic focus of inflammation, the pattern of crystals is seriously disrupted or does not form at all. This process is greatly influenced by male sex hormones - androgens.

Symptoms of disorders

The start for the occurrence of acute prostatitis can be hypothermia or ARVI. Body temperature goes through the roof - up to 39-40 C and is accompanied by chills. Additionally, severe pain is localized in the groin, perineum and lower abdomen. Pain syndrome worsens during urination, and blood may appear in the urine.

The cause of bacterial prostatitis, which in isolated form occurs in only 10% of cases of the total number of diseases), is always an infection that has penetrated into the prostate from the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. In some cases, the causative agent is a fungal or viral infection.

If any discomfort occurs, it is important not to delay visiting a doctor, since the risk of complications is high:

Prostate abscess (formation of a purulent cavity in the gland tissue);
Orchitis (inflammation of the testicles);
Epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis);
Cystitis;
Urethritis;
Vesiculitis.

The main risk is that the disease becomes chronic, intractable.

Factors contributing to its development are as follows:

Chronic infection of the urinary tract, respiratory system;
Incorrect treatment of acute prostatitis;
Physical inactivity;
Irregular sex;
Hypothermia and decreased immunity.

If no measures are taken to treat chronic prostatitis, the focus of inflammation and stagnation of blood in the pelvic area lead to damage to prostate tissue. The disease develops into a severe form, which is very difficult to treat.

Up to 90% of cases occur with chronic non-bacterial prostatitis, which makes itself felt both by urination disorders and constant pain in the perineal area. The disease starts with an inflammatory process and continues under the influence of autoimmune mechanisms. The disease is characterized by the presence chronic infection and disorders of the nervous regulation of the pelvic organs, as well as the blood supply to the prostate.

Chronic prostatitis in the absence of adequate treatment can manifest itself with the following complications:

Erectile dysfunction;
Prostate fibrosis;
Adenoma;

Correct treatment

During diagnosis, the key issue remains determining the form of the disease. The most difficult to treat is chronic pelvic pain syndrome or chronic nonbacterial prostatitis. If we are talking about acute prostatitis or chronic bacterial prostate, it is much easier to diagnose and treat it. The course can take from two to three weeks.

For acute prostatitis of a bacterial nature, the attending physician will select an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and antifungal agents. At the same time, any physiotherapeutic procedures (massage, warming) are strictly contraindicated.

In chronic forms of prostatitis, the course of treatment can be extended to six months. Antibiotic therapy is used. The course starts with two weeks of taking the prescribed drug. If there are improvements, it will be extended to six weeks. Alpha-blockers are particularly effective. The drugs significantly relieve the following symptoms:

Decreased urine stream pressure;
Frequent urination during the day and at night;
Uncontrollable and sudden urge to urinate.

Anti-inflammatory drugs (used rectally) will provide an analgesic effect. To reduce the inflammatory process and eliminate the symptoms of the disease, complex therapy may include herbal preparations, immunomodulators, adaptogens, vitamins and drugs that improve microcirculation.

In the case of chronic prostatitis, in order to prescribe the correct treatment and prescribe a suitable antibiotic, long-term drainage of the prostate glands is indicated. As a rule, the examination is not limited to a single culture of prostate secretions.

In the most severe cases, in the absence of a positive effect from long-term treatment, surgical treatment may be recommended:

Transurethral resection of the prostate;
Radical prostatectomy;
Laser treatment of the prostate.

With timely diagnosis and proper treatment, dangerous symptoms and consequences of prostatitis can be completely avoided.

The anatomy of the prostate gland, its functions and structural features begin to worry a man when the pathological process has begun. The prostate differs from other organs in its structure, resembling a small round egg. It is located between the symphysis pubis and the rectum. The supporting structure of the prostate gland is a small capsule that completely covers the gland.

The size of the male organ depends on the age of the person, since the necessary gland tissue is formed over 40 years. In infants and newborns, this organ is practically invisible due to the small amount of parenchyma and stroma.

And in an adult man, the prostate reaches 20 g and is clearly visible on ultrasound (ultrasound examination method) or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). If there are no deviations from the norm, then the organ has a dense structure and little elasticity.

After 50 years, healthy prostate cells become deformed into fibrous connective tissue.

If you look at the male organ from the side, you can see several parts of the prostate:

top or top;
main part;
front half;
rear end.

A characteristic feature of the apex is its narrowing downward, where the urogenital diaphragm is located. The base has a concave structure, wide thickness and is located in close proximity to the bladder.

The physiological feature of the prostate is the anterior and posterior zones. The first faces the pubic symphysis, which is located in the middle, at the junction of the pubic bones. And the back part is located near the wall of the anus. If we compare both zones, the back will be several times larger than the front.

The main part of the prostate consists of the apical, posterior and lateral parts, which together have a rounded shape. They contain smooth muscles that allow the anus to contract. Here a division occurs into the right and left parts of the prostate, which are divided along the back. Their separation lies at the groove and isthmus.

The isthmus is located between two openings, one of which is the ejaculatory duct. The other hole is responsible for the flow of urine into the urethra. As a rule, in young men under 50 years of age, the isthmus is small and almost invisible. In older males, this area increases and makes up a significant part of the middle part of the prostate.

If we talk about the internal structure of the prostate gland in men, then it is worth knowing that it consists of two types of tissue.

The first and main tissue is the parenchyma, which is unevenly distributed throughout the entire organ area. The second tissue is muscle substance, which performs transport, protective and motor functions. Over time, both types of tissue are susceptible to modification, during which they are replaced by fibrous tissue.

Around the entire mass of the prostate gland there is a stroma - a capsule that consists of connective and smooth muscle tissue. Since the seminal ducts pass around the stroma, the parenchyma is divided into several parts.

It is worth remembering that the size of the prostate gland depends only on the age of the man, so in children the weight of the organ does not exceed 10 grams, when in an adult man the weight reaches 15-20 grams.

Features of the structure of the prostate gland

From a histological point of view, the prostate gland consists of functional units, which are responsible for its structural features. Such a concept as an acinus is a structural unit of an organ. There are no more than 50 ascini in the prostate gland.

These are small alveolar tubular glands that are separated by small inclusions of connective and smooth muscle tissue. In this case, the macinus consists of a cluster of thin excretory ducts, the end of which falls on the back of the urethra. If we consider the location of the organ in the entire system, we can see that the rounded shape contributes to good blood supply.

Blood supply occurs through many arteries:

bladder arteries;
rectal arteries;
prostate artery.

The venous blood supply passes through a network of veins that are located on the organ itself. From the venous plexus, blood enters the inferior vesical veins, from which venous blood passes into the inferior vena cava.

Lymph drainage is carried out in the same way. As with the venous plexus, the lymphatic vessels form entire plexuses through which the lymphatic fluid passes.

Basic functions of the prostate

Since the prostate is an organ of a complex anatomical structure, its functions are of the same nature. First of all, this organ is involved in the reproduction of cells and hormones.

Experts also highlight the following functions:

secretory;
motor;
transport;
protective.

It is the prostate gland that is completely responsible for the viability of sperm when they enter a woman’s body. To do this, the male organ secretes a special secretion that provides protection and nutrition to the germ cells, up to fertilization. This secret has a protein base, which makes it liquid and well bonded.

The secretory fluid contains various nutrients. Electrolytes maintain a constant content of minerals and trace elements that are necessary for the normal functioning of germ cells. Fats perform an energy function, and the hormones contained in them help maintain hormonal balance.

In addition to these nutrients, the secretory fluid includes lecithin and phospholipids, which are saturated with carbohydrates. It is this fraction of substances that is responsible for supporting sperm vitality. Even after a few days, the reproductive cells can function normally and be active if carbohydrates perform their function.

The secretion fluid is directly affected by enzymes produced by the prostate gland. They make the secretion resistant to external factors and more fluid, which helps with further fertilization.

Inside the secretory fluid, with the help of enzymes, an acid-base balance favorable for germ cells is created.

Regulation of secretory function lies entirely with one hormone - testosterone. It is responsible for sexual and reproductive development. The hormone is reproduced in the testes, and is subsequently controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. As soon as the body lets you know about the insufficient production of this hormone, the testes begin to produce it.

Motor

Motor function is no less important for the normal functioning of the entire genitourinary system, since it is responsible for urinary retention. This process occurs involuntarily, that is, a person is not able to control it. However, on the part of the prostate gland, the process completely depends on the condition of the smooth muscle tissue.

Due to contractions of smooth muscle tissue, fluid is retained during the period between the process of urination, as well as during ejaculation. The prostate acts as a separation barrier between urine and secretory fluid containing germ cells. Therefore, during the process of ejaculation, only secretion is released, and urine is retained by the smooth muscles of the prostate gland.

Transport

The transport function is responsible for transporting seminal fluid and urine into the urinary canal. Since the structure of the prostate in men has its own characteristics, one of the most important functions is transport.

The release of seminal fluid is carried out due to contractions of the smooth muscles of the seminal vesicles. After contractions, the process of releasing sperm from special capsules occurs, then it is thrown into the urethra.

This seemingly simple process requires enormous amounts of energy. The seminal vesicle restores its reserves of seminal fluid immediately after ejaculation.

A protective or barrier function is necessary to separate seminal fluid and urine. This role is played by the prostate gland, which, through contractions of smooth muscle tissue, prevents urine from penetrating during ejaculation. Likewise, the prostate does not allow secretory fluid to pass through during urination.

In addition to its main task, this organ protects the entire genitourinary system from viral and bacterial infections that enter through the urethra.

For this purpose, the prostate gland contains a microelement such as zinc. It is he who is responsible for the reproduction of testosterone and protection internal organs pelvis from infection, as it has antibacterial properties.

Prostate zones

The division into zones was introduced specifically for a better understanding of the cross-sectional structure of the prostate gland. This is essential for surgical and clinical practice.

If we consider internal structure prostate, then five main zones can be distinguished:

fibromuscular basis;
transition zone;
urethra;
central zone;
peripheral zone.

In normal condition, the peripheral and central zone of the prostate gland occupies more than 90% of the entire organ. The remaining percentage falls on the transitional part, the fibromuscular base and the urethra.

The periurethral zone of the prostate is also included in this 5-10%. It consists of epithelial cells that surround the urethra on the side of the prostate gland.

The peripheral zone in the healthy male population under 50 years of age makes up 70% of the entire organ, so basically all pathological processes take place in this part of the prostate. In the same situation, the central zone occupies 20-25% of the mass of the entire gland. At the same time, it is located closer to the bladder and passes through the entire prostate area.

This is explained by the fact that the central section envelops the ejaculatory ducts, which pass inside the prostate. It has a conical shape, so this section easily passes from the base to the seed tubercle. In the event of oncological formations, this part is practically not susceptible to infection.

However, with the formation of benign tumors (hyperplasia), the percentage ratio changes. This is due to the formation of heterogeneous structures that spread to some parts of the gland. Cancer cells mainly spread to the peripheral, periurethral and transition zone. They serve as the basis for the formation of benign and malignant tumors.

Despite its small size, the organ can be clearly examined using palpation. To do this, the specialist needs to palpate the prostate through the wall of the rectum.

In some cases resort to more modern methods studies where a specialist can view an organ in a photo or video and measure its size.

Before talking about prostate diseases, you should familiarize yourself with its structure and functions. Prostate gland, anatomy - this question will be of interest to most men, since this organ belongs to the reproductive system of the stronger half of humanity. Women present a completely different structural makeup.

In medical sources, the prostate gland is often called prostate, which is derived from the Latin word of the same name, prostatica.

Organ Anatomy

The prostate gland, or prostate, is an exocrine gland of the male reproductive system. This is an unpaired androgen-dependent organ, in appearance similar to an inverted rounded trapezoid. Some sources call its shape chestnut-shaped. In young boys, the prostate, due to its underdevelopment, resembles a ball and becomes chestnut-shaped during puberty.

The weight and size of the prostate gland depend on the age category of the man and the individual characteristics of the body. As a rule, the length of the prostate in an adult is 2.5-4.5 cm, the width varies between 2.2-4.0 cm, and the thickness reaches from one to 2.3 cm. The weight category of the organ ranges from 150 to 300 mg.

In childhood, both the size and weight of the prostate gland are insignificant.

The prostate of each male individual may differ in chemical, anatomical and physiological respects.

The structure of the prostate is designed in such a way that this organ is located directly under the bladder between the rectum (the back part of the gland is adjacent) and the pubic joint (its front part is located).

The urethra (the initial part of the urethra) and the vas deferens pass through the tissues of this gland.

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The anatomy of the prostate gland is structurally divided by a shallow groove into two lobes - right and left. In addition, we can distinguish its middle lobe, which is called the isthmus. With age, the isthmus can grow and put pressure on the urethra. This is why older men often have problems with urination.

The body of the prostate gland consists of smooth muscles that constantly contract in a uniform rhythm. Inside the stroma there are up to fifty thin tubular-alveolar glands. The latter are connected in pairs and come out in the form of holes from the seminal tubercle.

The prostate gland contains lymphoid tissue. That is why lymphotropic therapy is used in medicine when various prostate diseases occur.

The prostate and the seminal vesicles that surround it are surrounded on all sides by thick veins. Together they form the venous plexus of the prostate gland.

In addition to veins and blood capillaries, a huge number of nerve endings - sympathetic fibers - pass through the gland.

Functioning of the prostate

The prostate gland plays one of the main roles in a man’s life and performs a number of functions important for the normal functioning of the body.

This exocrine gland has the ability to retain urine, promotes normal urination and produces the necessary hormones for the formation of sperm.

The main functions of the prostate include:

exocrine (exocrine);

internal;

barrier;

motor.

Each of these functions ensures that the body performs certain physiological operations.

Types of prostate functions

The secretory function of the prostate is regulated by the hormone testosterone. If the level of this hormone in the blood decreases, the organ begins to intensively produce the required amount to maintain the norm.

The prostate is a hormone-dependent organ and responds to androgens. The integumentary cells of the prostate gland are controlled by the endocrine system. They are responsible for the production of prostate juice (secretion), which after ejaculation (ejaculation) contributes to the liquefaction of sperm and sperm motility. Thus, these cells are directly involved in the fertilization of the egg.

In the case of diseases of the exocrine gland, changes occur in the composition of the secretion, both qualitatively and quantitatively. The ability to fertilize begins to decrease, sperm motility worsens, and the amount of semen decreases.

Motor function is performed through smooth muscle fibers or the release of prostate juice during ejaculation. The essence of this function is that inside the prostate there are muscle tissues that form the sphincter. The latter, in turn, is responsible for urinary retention and urination.

The barrier function serves as a kind of shield, protection from different types infections. Thanks to its protective ability, the possibility of penetration of infected microorganisms from the urethra into the upper urinary tract is excluded.

Find out your potency level

Not everyone knows what it is and what its anatomy is. The prostate is located in the pelvis in men; its main function is the production of secretory fluid necessary for the body to ensure sperm activity. When the function of the gland is disrupted and inflammatory processes or neoplasms appear in it, serious problems with urine output, potency.

Knowledge about the structure of the prostate and its functioning will help maintain the health of the organ

The most common prostate pathologies in older men are cancer and hyperplasia. Prostatitis occurs in younger patients and often occurs with complications. Every man needs to know where the prostate is located and how it works, as well as the symptoms of its diseases.

How does the gland work?

The male gland is located in the central part of the pelvis between the bladder, rectum and pubic symphysis.

The anatomy of the prostate is such that it is connected to part of the urethral canal, therefore, with the development of inflammation in the tissues of the prostate gland, problems with urination may occur - pain, weakening of the stream and difficult outflow of urine.

An enlarged prostate leads to disruption of urination and reproductive functions due to compression of the bladder and genital organs

As a result of an increase in the volume of the prostate in men, with prostatitis, adenoma or cancer, compression of the vas deferens occurs, which causes erectile dysfunction and decreased sexual activity.

The gland is attached to pubic bone muscle fibers. The space located next to the prostate and pubic area contains veins and fat. Thanks to a network of arteries that have branches from the vessels of the rectum and bladder, the gland is supplied with blood, the outflow of which from its tissues is ensured by the plexus of Santorini.

The anatomy of the prostate gland allows palpation using the rectal method, which helps to determine changes in the organ that occur due to inflammation, hyperplasia and malignant pathology. As a rule, the urologist performs palpation during the initial examination.

The gland is light in weight (about 20 grams) and appearance looks like a chestnut. are about 2*4 cm. In older men, this organ becomes smaller as a result of involution. When hyperplasia or malignant neoplasm appears, the volume of the prostate can increase significantly.

The gland has a groove running along its surface and dividing the organ into several parts. The lobes of the prostate are usually distinguished into left, right and isthmus, called the middle lobe. Inside, the prostate gland consists of alveoli and tubes through which secretory fluid flows.

The anatomical acinus is a structural unit of the prostate, which contains 30–50 such parts.

The parenchyma of the gland is also divided into parts, the central of which is located next to the bladder.

Internal structure of the prostate

Main functions

The structure of the prostate and its location make it possible to call it the “second heart” of a man. Despite the fact that the gland is very small, it plays a vital role in the male body. This body performs the following functions:

Secretory - the production of a special fluid that dilutes sperm and maintains its quality necessary for fertilization.
The motor gland, thanks to which seminal fluid is released during ejaculation, at the same moment the gland prevents urine from entering the urethral canal.
Protective, which helps prevent the penetration of bacteria from the urinary tract into other pelvic organs.

Microscopy of prostate secretion is necessary to assess its functional state

Prostatic fluid contains many biological components: a specific antigen protein, sodium citrate, enzymes, lysozyme. The secretion may stagnate in the gland due to sedentary lifestyle life, irregularity sexual contacts. This phenomenon leads to the development of inflammatory processes that cause serious consequences.

Prostate diseases

Most often, urologists diagnose inflammation of the gland. Some men suffer from congestive prostatitis, in which microcirculation in the tissues is disrupted. Against the background of the accumulation of secretions and the entry of bacteria from the urinary tract, an infectious disease develops, accompanied by hyperthermia and intoxication. In the case of prolonged prostatitis and in the absence of therapy, the appearance of cystic formations and purulent foci, areas of fibrosis is possible.

Sclerotic tissue damage leads to decreased potency, deterioration of semen quality and infertility.

Frequent inflammatory processes in the prostate can cause male infertility

Typically, symptoms of inflammatory disease of the gland are expressed in pain in the groin, rectal area, discomfort during sexual intercourse, and problems with erection. The same signs also occur with the development of bacterial prostatitis, which can be caused by infections such as chlamydia and trichomoniasis.

In men over 50 years of age, the risk of prostate hyperplasia increases significantly. This is due to the development of hormonal imbalance, diseases of the endocrine and reproductive systems. Prostate adenoma is diagnosed using ultrasound examination, laboratory tests, palpation. This disease is not considered malignant, but carries the risk of developing acute urinary retention. This condition is accompanied by severe intoxication, which is characterized by vomiting, dizziness, severe headaches, weight loss, loss of appetite, yellowness of the skin and mucous membranes. Symptoms arise due to the enlarged prostate squeezing the urinary tract. If such complications develop, emergency hospitalization of the man is required.

Acute urinary retention is a life-threatening condition that requires urgent medical attention.

There are also frequent cases of the development of malignant prostate disease, which is life-threatening not only due to compression of nearby organs by the enlarged gland, but also due to metastases to other organs and tissues.

Depending on the stage and symptoms accompanying prostate cancer, doctors decide on the treatment method.

Today, pathological prostate tissue cells are removed using surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. Great importance has a stage of the disease. If a tumor is detected at the beginning of its development, the chances of restoring health are quite high. After treatment, the patient should regularly visit the urologist. An indicator of the appearance of disorders in the gland is prostatic antigen. If changes in this organ are suspected, a man should regularly donate blood for PSA.

PSA level testing helps prevent prostate tumor recurrence

Preventive measures

In order to avoid the appearance of disorders in the prostate and the development of its dysfunction, men must adhere to some rules, which are as follows:

You should exercise regularly and take walks;
avoid hypothermia;
avoid prolonged sexual intercourse;
do not delay the ejaculation process;
Healthy food;
have sex with a regular partner;
eliminate alcohol and nicotine;
consume enough water.

Staying hydrated benefits the entire body

Important preventive measure is an annual visit to the urologist.

If a man has previously been diagnosed with chronic prostatitis, he should be examined more often. If the disease worsens, you should definitely consult a doctor. You should not choose medications and other treatment methods on your own. It is important to remember that untreated chronic illness glands can lead to impotence and infertility.

About the structure of the prostate gland and its functions, see the video below: