Morphofunctional state of the prostate in normal conditions and with hyperplasia in dogs

The article reviews methods of ultrasound and morphometric examination of the prostate gland in dogs in order to identify normal characteristics and changes associated with various pathologies. The technical aspects of ultrasound scanning are reviewed, as well as methods for measuring and analyzing morphometric parameters. The studies were carried out at the Department of Anatomy, Histology, Physiology and Pathological Anatomy, at the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education Omsk State Agrarian University (Omsk region). The subjects of the study were sexually mature male dogs of the French bulldog breed aged from 2 to 10 years. As a result of the studies, it was established that the prostate gland is located under the bladder and surrounds the first part of the urethra. Normally, the prostate in males has an oval shape and size, which may vary slightly depending on the age, breed and individual characteristics of the dog. On average, its size is about 4 cm in length, 3 cm in width and 3 cm in height. When palpated, the prostate usually has an elastic consistency. It may feel a little soft when pressed lightly, but should not be too hard or very soft. The structure of the prostate consists of glandular tissue, smooth muscle fibers and connective tissue. With prostate hyperplasia in male dogs, excessive growth of the glandular tissue of the prostate occurs, which leads to an increase in the size of the gland and can cause pathological changes. The organ becomes noticeably enlarged compared to its normal state. Dimensions can vary up to 7 centimeters in length and width depending on the degree of hyperplasia and the individual characteristics of the dog. It may have bulges, protrusions, or unnatural contours. Hyperplasia leads to an increase in the amount of glandular tissue, which makes the prostate harder and more compact when palpated.