prostaten

Prostate gland, commonly referred to in Dutch as the prostaat (singular) and prostaten (plural), is a small, walnut-sized exocrine gland in the male reproductive system. It sits below the bladder and surrounds the urethra. In an adult male it weighs about 20-30 grams and consists of glandular tissue arranged in ducts within fibromuscular stroma.

Anatomy: The gland is described in zones—peripheral, central, and transitional—with an anterior fibromuscular stroma. The peripheral zone contains most glandular tissue and is the most common site of cancer.

Function: The prostate secretes prostatic fluid, a component of semen that nourishes and protects sperm. The fluid contains enzymes, citrate, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA). During ejaculation, smooth muscle in the gland helps expel semen.

Clinical relevance: The main conditions are benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate cancer. BPH is common in older men and can cause urinary symptoms. Prostatitis refers to inflammation or infection and may cause pelvic pain. Prostate cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in men and can be asymptomatic in early stages.

Diagnosis and treatment: Evaluation includes digital rectal examination (DRE) and measurement of PSA levels, often with imaging such as ultrasound or MRI and possible biopsy. Treatments vary by condition: BPH may be managed with lifestyle changes, alpha-blockers, 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, or surgery (eg, TURP or laser). Prostatitis is treated with antibiotics if bacterial. Prostate cancer treatment ranges from active surveillance for low-risk disease to surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy depending on stage and risk.

Prevention and prognosis: There is no proven way to prevent prostate diseases in most cases. Outcomes depend on the specific condition and stage, with early detection improving options and prognosis.