Androgen action blockade does not result in reduction in size but changes histology of the normal human prostate

Prostate. 1987;11(4):305-11. doi: 10.1002/pros.2990110403.

Abstract

The effect of androgen blockade on the normal human prostate was studied in 16 healthy volunteers opting for male-to-female gender reassignment. Their ages ranged from 19 to 27 years. After 8 weeks of treatment with Anandron, serum hormone levels indicated anti-androgenic action and physical signs of feminization appeared. Prostate volumes (measured by ultrasound) before and following Anandron treatment remained the same. After 18 months of treatment with cyproterone-acetate and ethinyl estradiol, prostate volumes again were not changed. However, histology revealed glandular atrophy and an increase in stromal tissue. The significance of these findings is discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Androgen Antagonists / pharmacology*
  • Cyproterone / analogs & derivatives
  • Cyproterone / pharmacology
  • Cyproterone Acetate
  • Ethinyl Estradiol / pharmacology
  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone / blood
  • Humans
  • Imidazoles / pharmacology*
  • Imidazolidines*
  • Luteinizing Hormone / blood
  • Male
  • Prolactin / blood
  • Prostate / anatomy & histology*
  • Prostate / cytology
  • Prostate / drug effects
  • Testosterone / blood

Substances

  • Androgen Antagonists
  • Imidazoles
  • Imidazolidines
  • Testosterone
  • Ethinyl Estradiol
  • Cyproterone Acetate
  • nilutamide
  • Prolactin
  • Luteinizing Hormone
  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone
  • Cyproterone