Abstract

Background: To study the morphogenesis of the prostate gland in human foetuses. ‘Prostates’ is a Greek word which literally means “one who stands before”, protector, guardian. It is important from a clinical point of view as it undergoes benign enlargement from the fifth decade,hence attracting the attention of males around this age and simultaneously the clinicians. Materials and Methods: 112 foetuses of different gestational ages ranging from 14 weeks (85 mm) to 40 weeks (440 mm), products of terminated pregnancies under MTP Act of India, 1971 and stillbirths were collected from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, RIMS, Imphal and utilised for the present study with permission from the Institutional Ethical Committee. Results and observations: The first time of appearance of the prostate gland to the naked eye till its definitive adult shape is studied. Growth and development at specific age period at different age groups are described. Conclusion: Increase in vertical and transverse dimensions, assumption of adult shape were noted as the age changes. And at term,it has all the three components of the adult tissues although it is not as mature as in adult.This signifies that the growth of the prostate continues postnatally.

Authors and Affiliations