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ORIGINAL ARTICLE

Men with spinal cord injury have a smaller prostate than men without

, MD, &
Pages 120-123 | Received 19 Dec 2005, Published online: 09 Jul 2009
 

Abstract

Objective. To compare prostate volume and number of ejaculations in men with and without spinal cord injury (SCI). Material and methods. A total of 31 men aged ≥30 years who had suffered from SCI at the age of 15–30 years >5 years previously were investigated and compared with 31 age-matched controls. Prostate size was measured using transrectal ultrasound and compared between groups. Hormonal status was examined by measuring the levels of prostate-specific antigen, testosterone, prolactin, estradiol and sex hormone-binding globulin. Questions were asked concerning ejaculatory function. Results. Median prostate size was 20.4 cm3 (range 9.9–39.7 cm3) in the SCI group and 25.7 cm3 (range 14.5–39.1 cm3) in the control group (p=0.002). Testosterone levels were within normal ranges, but a significant difference between the groups was seen (p<0.001). The free androgen index did not differ significantly between the groups. No significant differences in other hormone levels were demonstrated. The control group ejaculated a median of eight times per month (range 1–28 times). Eight men with SCI ejaculated without assistance a median of twice per month (range <1–12 times) (p=0.028). Nine men with SCI achieved ejaculations with penile vibratory stimulation a median of once per month (range <1–4 times) (p=0.004). Fourteen men had either not ejaculated at all or very seldom following the injury. Conclusions. Men with SCI have a smaller prostate than those without. Further investigations are necessary to elucidate whether the reduced number of ejaculations they experience and the neurological damage contribute to this.

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