Anatomic distribution of intraprostatic lymphatics: Implications for the lymphatic spread of prostate cancer - A preliminary study

BACKGROUND. Although prostate cancer metastasizes primarily into the lympha tic system, the anatomic distribution of intraprostatic lymphatics has not been elucidated. The aim of this study was to clarify the distribution of l ymphatics in the human prostate by immunohistochemical techniques, using an anti-desmoplakin antibody. METHODS. Whole-mount cryostatic sections were serially cut from the noncarc inomatous prostates of adult men with bladder carcinoma who underwent cysto prostatectomy. Each section was stained either with a monoclonal antibody s pecific for desmoplakin or with hematoxylin and eosin. RESULTS. Lymphatics were detected in all components of the prostate, in the glandular prostate, lymphatics were distributed evenly in the peripheral, transitional, and central zones. The lymphatic density was significantly hi gh in the midbase region surrounding ejaculatory ducts. CONCLUSIONS. These results may indicate the importance of the midbase regio n as a route of lymphatic spread of prostate cancer. (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, I nc.