Intraprostatic lymphatics in man: light and ultrastructural observations

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Anatomy
• Histology

Background:

• Previous literature suggested the human prostate lacks lymphatic vessels.
• Understanding prostate lymphatic drainage is crucial for disease progression and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the presence and location of lymphatic vessels in the human prostate.
• To clarify the anatomical relationship between prostate lymphatics and surrounding tissues.

Main Methods:

• Electron microscopy was used to examine prostatic curettings.
• Detailed ultrastructural analysis focused on identifying lymphatic channels and their connections.

Main Results:

• Unequivocal evidence of lymphatics within the prostate proper was demonstrated.
• Lymphatic channels were identified between smooth muscle cells and in the fibrous stroma.
• Smaller caliber lymphatics, likely initial lymphatics, were observed connected to muscle cells.
• No lymphatics were found in the subepithelial space; only blood capillaries were present.

Conclusions:

• The human prostate contains lymphatic vessels, contrary to some previous reports.
• Prostatic lymphatics are located within the muscle and stromal compartments.
• The intimate association with muscle cells suggests a specific functional role for these lymphatics.