Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common, non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. This condition is a natural part of the aging process for many men, with symptoms often appearing after age 40 and becoming more prevalent with increasing age. Understanding what an enlarged prostate looks like through imaging techniques can help individuals better comprehend this widespread health issue and its impact on urinary function.
Understanding the Enlarged Prostate
The prostate gland, typically about the size of a walnut, is located just beneath the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder. As men age, the prostate often grows, a process known as BPH. This growth can press against the urethra, narrowing the pathway for urine flow. The bladder wall may thicken over time as it works harder to push urine through the constricted urethra. This can lead to various urinary symptoms, such as difficulty starting to urinate, a weak or interrupted urine stream, or the feeling that the bladder has not emptied completely.
Imaging Techniques for BPH
To assess the prostate’s size and structure, healthcare providers use several diagnostic imaging methods. Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) is a common technique for visualizing the prostate. During a TRUS, a small probe is inserted into the rectum, which sits directly in front of the prostate, allowing sound waves to create detailed images of the gland. This method helps measure prostate volume and detect abnormalities like calcifications or cysts.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans are also used, particularly in more complex cases or when surgery is being considered. MRI provides highly detailed cross-sectional images of the prostate and surrounding tissues, which can be more accurate than TRUS for estimating prostate volume, especially when the prostate is larger than 35 cubic centimeters. While CT scans are not typically the first choice for BPH diagnosis, they can incidentally identify an enlarged prostate if the gland extends above the pubic bone or has a volume exceeding 30 milliliters.
What Diagnostic Images Reveal
When reviewing BPH images, doctors examine specific features to understand the extent of the enlargement and its impact. The primary focus is on assessing the prostate’s overall size and shape, often measured in cubic centimeters. Images can reveal an increase in prostate volume, often exceeding 30 milliliters, and show whether the central gland is enlarged. Doctors also look for any structural irregularities within the prostate, such as the presence of nodules or calcifications.
Beyond the prostate itself, imaging helps evaluate secondary changes caused by the obstruction. For instance, images can reveal bladder wall thickening or trabeculation, which occurs when the bladder muscles work harder to expel urine. In more severe cases, images might show hydronephrosis, a condition where urine backs up into the kidneys due to prolonged obstruction, or the presence of bladder stones.