The prostate of the nonhuman primate: normal anatomy and pathology

The caudal and cranial prostate of different species of nonhuman primates were examined for histologic characteristics and pathological abnormalities. One hundred specimens from 12 species were represented. Among the pathologies found were: 1) cystic hyperplasia; 2) fibromuscular hyperplasia; 3) squamous metaplasia; 4) chronic and acute bacterial prostatitis; 5) prostate adenocarcinoma; and 6) other miscellaneous pathologic changes. A historical review of histological characteristics and pathological abnormalities of the nonhuman primate prostate is given. Based upon findings in this study, anatomical similarity of the caudal lobe of the prostate to the peripheral zone of the prostate in humans as described by McNeal is found. In the patas monkey the relationship of the cranial and caudal lobe suggests strongly the relationship seen between the central and peripheral zones in man. The case of prostatic adenocarcinoma described has only been reported in one other nonhuman primate.