Prostatavolumen

Prostatavolumen, or prostate volume, is the measure of the three‑dimensional size of the prostate gland and is usually expressed in milliliters (mL or cm^3). It is typically estimated using imaging studies such as transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The prostate is often approximated as an ellipsoid, with volume calculated as length × width × height × 0.52, although direct segmentation on MRI yields higher accuracy.

Normal ranges for prostate volume vary with age. In healthy young adult men, the gland commonly measures around 15–25 cm^3, with many sources indicating about 20–30 cm^3. With advancing age, the average volume tends to increase, and values around 30–40 cm^3 are common in older men. Volumes can be substantially larger in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Clinical relevance: Prostate volume is used to evaluate lower urinary tract symptoms and to support the diagnosis and management of BPH. It also informs calculations such as PSA density (serum PSA divided by prostate volume), which can refine cancer risk assessment and management decisions. Knowledge of volume aids in planning treatment, including pharmacologic options (for example, alpha-blockers or 5‑alpha‑reductase inhibitors) and procedural approaches (such as TURP) or radiotherapy planning. Very large volumes may influence the choice and feasibility of interventions.

Limitations: Measurements vary with imaging modality and technique, and factors such as inflammation or focal nodules can affect estimates. Prostate volume is one factor among several in clinical decision-making.