Significant changes of T2 value in the peripheral zone and seminal vesicles after ejaculation

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Urology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Prostate and seminal vesicle imaging are crucial for diagnosing various urological conditions.
• Understanding physiological changes, such as those post-ejaculation, is vital for accurate interpretation of MRI findings.
• Previous studies have not fully elucidated the quantitative impact of ejaculation on prostate and seminal vesicle MRI parameters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively analyze changes in prostate and seminal vesicle (SV) volumes and T2 values using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after ejaculation.
• To assess the impact of ejaculation on different zones of the prostate (peripheral zone and central gland).
• To determine if ejaculation affects seminal vesicle volumes.

Main Methods:

• Ten healthy young males underwent T2-weighted and T2 mapping MRI before and after two consecutive ejaculations.
• T2 values of the prostate peripheral zone (PZ) and central gland (CG) were compared at the midgland and apex before and after ejaculation.
• Seminal vesicle (SV) volumes were measured and compared pre- and post-ejaculation.
• Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon's signed rank test with Bonferroni adjustment.

Main Results:

• Significant decrease in T2 values of the prostate peripheral zone (PZ) at the midgland and apex post-ejaculation.
• No significant change in T2 values of the prostate central gland (CG) at the midgland post-ejaculation.
• Significant reduction in seminal vesicle (SV) volumes post-ejaculation.

Conclusions:

• Ejaculation leads to decreased T2 values in the apical and mid-peripheral zones of the prostate.
• Ejaculation does not significantly alter T2 values in the central gland of the prostate.
• Seminal vesicle volumes are significantly reduced after ejaculation, highlighting the importance of considering abstinence periods before pelvic MRI.