Benign prostatic hyperplasia

Question 1

Which prostatic zone enlarges with BPH?

Answer 1

transitional zone

Question 2

Which hormone is produced by the prostate?

Answer 2

Dihydrotestosterone by the action of 5-alpha reductase

Question 3

Action of 5alpha reductase

Answer 3

converts testosterone –> dihydrotestosterone

Question 4

Why do dihydrotestosterone lvls increase as you get older?

Answer 4

due to increased 5alpha reductase activity

Question 5

Effect of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone on basal and luminal cells of prostate

Answer 5

inhibits apoptosis allowing continued proliferation of basal + luminal cells

Question 6

general structure of prostate

Answer 6

• surrounded by tough fibrous capsule and SM

- made up of tiny glands each surrounded by basement membrane, basal cells, luminal cells + neuroendocrine cells

Question 7

Function of luminal cells

Answer 7

secrete substances into prostatic fluid tht make it:

slightly alkaline

provide nutrients for sperm

help sperm survive acidic vagina

produce PSA