Prostatic

Prostatic refers to anything pertaining to the prostate gland, a part of the male reproductive system. The prostate gland is responsible for producing a fluid that nourishes and protects sperm.

Anatomy

The prostate gland is located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine and semen exit the body. The size of the prostate changes with age, growing rapidly during puberty and then again around the age of 25.

Function

The primary function of the prostate gland is to secrete a fluid that makes up part of semen. This fluid nourishes and protects sperm as it travels through the female reproductive system. The prostate gland also helps propel this fluid into the urethra during ejaculation.

Prostatic Diseases

There are several diseases and conditions that can affect the prostate gland. These include:

• Prostatitis: This is an inflammation or infection of the prostate gland. It can cause pain and difficulty urinating.
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): This is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It can cause difficulty urinating and frequent urination, especially at night.
• Prostate cancer: This is a type of cancer that occurs in the prostate gland. It is one of the most common types of cancer in men.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of prostatic diseases often involves a digital rectal exam, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, and sometimes a biopsy. Treatment options vary depending on the specific disease or condition and can include medication, surgery, radiation therapy, and other treatments.

See Also

• Prostate-specific antigen
• Prostate biopsy
• Prostatectomy

Prostatic Resources
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