A NON-INVASIVE TECHNIQUE FOR MONITORING CHANGES IN CANINE PROSTATIC SIZE INVIVO

Abstract

A procedure for monitoring changes in canine prostatic size is described. Metal beads were sutured to the surface of the prostate and the interbead distances were derived from 2 X-rays taken at right angles. Prostatic hyperplasia was induced by castration and injection of 5.alpha.-androstane-3.alpha.,17.beta.-diol and 17.beta.-estradiol. Prostatic regression was caused by castration without further treatment. Although growth of the prostate was nonuniform, changes in prostatic volume were related to the 3rd power of the distance between appropriate beads. This monitoring technique can be repeated every 2nd day if necessary and has an advantage over procedures that require repeated laparotomies. Significant increases in prostatic volume could be detected within 5 days after steroid injection.