Eturauhaset

Eturauhaset, or the prostate glands, are a small gland in the male reproductive system. In humans there is a single prostate gland, located below the bladder and encircling the proximal urethra; its shape is roughly walnut-like. The gland consists of glandular tissue and smooth muscle arranged into zones. Its primary function is to produce prostatic fluid, a component of semen. This fluid is alkaline and contains citrate, enzymes such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA), zinc, and prostaglandins; it helps nourish and protect sperm and contributes to semen viscosity and liquefaction after ejaculation.

Embryology and anatomy: The prostate develops from the urogenital sinus. It receives arterial blood mainly from the inferior vesical artery, and its venous drainage forms the prostatic venous plexus, which communicates with pelvic veins. Innervation is via the pelvic autonomic nerves, important for ejaculation.

Clinical relevance: The prostate can be affected by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate cancer. BPH is common in older men and may cause urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, nocturia, and weak flow. Prostatitis can cause pain and urinary symptoms. Prostate cancer is among the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men; screening uses digital rectal examination and measurement of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood. Treatments vary by condition and may include monitoring, medications (alpha-blockers, 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors), antibiotics for infection, or surgery and radiation for cancer.