Intraprostatic lymphatics in man: Light and ultrastructural observations

Despite reports that human prostate is without lymphatics, electron microscopic studies of prostatic curettings of human prostate have demonstrated unequivocal evidence that lymphatics exist in prostate proper. Such channels are found in two locations: between the muscle cells and in the fibrous stroma supporting the muscle bundles. The lymphatics between the muscle cells are of smaller caliber and probably represent initial lymphatics. They are intimately connected by anchoring filaments and microfibrils to the smooth muscle cells. The functional relationship between these has been discussed. No lymphatics were seen in subepithelial location. We saw only blood capillaries in that area.