18 Prostate Diseases
Basic Anatomy
Prostate Proper
• Glandular growth and maturation controlled by testosterone, which is converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by 5-alpha reductase
• Middle lobe: most common site of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), process arising in the periurethral transitional zone
• Anatomical parts: base, apex, four surfaces
• Supported anteriorly by puboprostatic ligaments, central portions of the pubococcygeus, part of the levator ani muscles (anterior pelvic diaphragm)
Prostatic Capsule(s)
• Prostatic (true) capsule: thin, dense, fibrous connective tissue enclosing parenchyma and surrounded by—