What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Ectopic Prostate Tissue
• Ectopic Prostatic Tissue

What is Ectopic Prostate? (Definition/Background Information)

• Ectopic Prostate may be described as the presence of prostate gland tissue within the mucosa of the urinary bladder (inner lining of the bladder). It is a rare condition that is observed in young males
• The prostate is a male reproductive gland whose main function is to produce fluid, to carry the sperms during ejaculation. This gland is located adjacent to the urethra
• Presence of prostate tissue outside the prostate gland is termed as Ectopic Prostate. It can occur at a variety of locations in the genitourinary system, particularly in males. The urinary bladder is the most common ectopic location for this condition
• The cause of formation of Ectopic Prostate is unknown; it is reportedly a congenital condition. There are also no clearly identified risk factors for the same
• Ectopic Prostate is typically asymptomatic (presenting no symptoms). In some cases, it may cause urinary retention, blood in urine, and abdominal discomfort
• If necessary, the healthcare provider may undertake a simple surgical removal of the symptomatic Ectopic Prostate Tissue. The prognosis is generally excellent, since it is a benign condition

Who gets Ectopic Prostate? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Ectopic Prostate is an uncommon condition that usually affects males
• Individuals of any age group may be affected, although most of the cases are reported in young adults
• The condition is observed worldwide; all racial and ethnic groups are affected

What are the Risk Factors for Ectopic Prostate? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, there are no clearly established risk factors associated with Ectopic Prostate

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Ectopic Prostate? (Etiology)

The cause of formation of Ectopic Prostate is generally unknown, but it is believed to be of a congenital origin (developing during fetal development). The following proposals to explain the cause have been placed forward:

• Some experts believe that the normal prostate stem cells may be abnormally migrating to adjacent sites (within the genitourinary system)
• During embryo formation, there may be a persistence of prostatic tissue (remnants) within the urinary bladder
• Chronic inflammation of the epithelium of the urinary bladder may be causing a reactive process (metaplastic changes)

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Ectopic Prostate?

In many cases, Ectopic Prostate does not present any significant signs and symptoms. In some cases, the following may be noted:

• Abdominal discomfort
• Gross hematuria (blood in urine), which is visible to the naked eye
• Microscopic hematuria, on examination of urine during a lab test
• Discomfort while passing urine (dysuria)
• Urinary bladder obstruction

Ectopic Prostate Tissue is usually observed in the neck region of the urinary bladder; but it may be seen at other locations too, such as the trigone, retro trigone, interureteric ridge, and ureteral openings.

How is Ectopic Prostate Diagnosed?

Ectopic Prostate is often an incidental finding, when the individual is being examined for other medical conditions. The condition may be misdiagnosed as a malignancy.

The following tests and exams may be performed:

• Complete evaluation of medical history along with thorough physical exam
• Urinalysis or urine tests
• Urine culture, to check for an infection
• Cystoscopy: Special instruments are used to visually examine and study the insides of the urinary bladder
• CT or MRI scan of the abdominal region
• Tissue biopsy: A tissue biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination, who examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

The healthcare provider may undertake a differential diagnosis to eliminate other conditions or tumor types, before arriving at a definitive diagnosis. These include:

• Post-surgical ingrowth of prostate tissue
• Retrovesical prostate tissue

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Ectopic Prostate?

There are usually no major complications from Ectopic Prostate. In some cases, it may present the following complications:

• Emotional stress due to concerns of bladder cancer (observed on a cystoscopy)
• Obstruction to the passage of urine
• In rare cases, carcinomas arising from the Ectopic Prostate Tissue has been reported
• Damage to the muscles, vital nerves, and blood vessels, during surgery
• Post-surgical infection at the wound site
• Recurrence of the condition on an incomplete surgical removal

How is Ectopic Prostate Treated?

• In many cases, no treatment may be necessary for Ectopic Prostate based on the evaluation of a qualified healthcare provider
• If it is present as a mass, then a simple surgical excision and removal of the enlarged ectopic tissue is sufficient treatment

How can Ectopic Prostate be Prevented?

Presently, it is not possible to prevent the development of an Ectopic Prostate.

What is the Prognosis of Ectopic Prostate? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Ectopic Prostate is typically excellent, since it is a benign condition
• With adequate treatment (surgery), when needed, it can result in a cure. However, some rare cases of recurrence are reported

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Ectopic Prostate:

Please visit our Kidney & Bladder Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/kidney-health/