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Atypical Cells in the Prostate

The prostate is an accessory glandular structure that is part of the male reproductive system. It encircles the urethra before it passes through the penis. The gland lies in front of the rectum, which explains why it is examined by digital rectal examination. Digital rectal examination involves inserting a lubricated gloved finger into the rectum of a male patient to feel for any abnormalities in shape, contour or consistency of the gland. Normally, it should be approximately 4 cm by 4 cm and should feel rubbery and smooth without tenderness. Any abnormalities could represent unusual cell growth in the prostate. To evaluate for cellular abnormalities of prostatic tissue, a doctor must take a biopsy for examination by a pathologist. Abnormal cells in the prostate can indicate three pathologies: prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, or prostate cancer.

  1. Prostatitis

    • Prostatitis describes an inflamed prostate most commonly due to infection. Acute prostatitis is most common in young men and chronic prostatitis is more common in older men and suggests obstruction of the urinary tract. Under the microscope prostatitis will exhibit an abundance of white blood cells in the prostate. The prostate will be tender to the touch during a digital rectal exam.

    Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

    • BPH is a common condition in men as they age. According to "Smith's General Urology," by age 80 approximately 90 percent of men have BPH. The condition occurs due to proliferation of glandular cells in the prostate causing the gland to grow and obstruct urinary outflow.

    Prostate Cancer

    • Prostate cancer is the most common cancer found in American men and incidences increase with age. If a doctor suspects prostate cancer based on digital rectal examination, he likely will take a biopsy to further evaluate the cellular components of the gland. Uncontrolled growth of glandular cells causes cancer. African-American men are at greatest risk of developing prostate cancer, and at earlier ages than white men. All men should have a routine prostate exam performed by his health care provider.

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