Age-related changes of normal prostate: evaluation by MR diffusion tensor imaging.

In this study, fifty healthy normal volunteers were divided into 3 groups according to age: group A (15-30 years, n=14), group B (31-50 years, n=24), group C (>51 years, n=12). The FA and ADC values in PZ and CZ were measured, and difference between the PZ and CZ were assessed. The results indicated that no significant difference were found in the FA and ADC values between the left and right of PZ (P>0.05), but significant differences were observed in the FA and ADC values between PZ and CZ within each group (P<0.05). The FA values of PZ in three groups were 0.227±0.052, 0.202±0.055, and 0.145±0.034, respectively. The ADC values were found to be 1.439±0.160×10(-3), 1.652±0.256×10(-3), and 2.001±0.266×10(-3) mm(2)/s, accordingly. The FA and ADC values in PZ were significantly (P<0.05) different between groups. The FA values of CZ in different groups were found to be 0.291±0.083, 0.287±0.045, and 0.257±0.059, respectively; while the corresponding ADC values were 1.374±0.171×10(-3), 1.382±0.178×10(-3), and 1.415±0.136×10(-3) mm(2)/s, respectively. The FA and ADC values in CZ were not statistically (P>0.05) different between groups. Pearson correlation analysis results showedthat the FA values in PZ havenegative correlation with age (r=-0.498, P<0.05), while the ADC values exhibited a positive correlation with age (r=0.682, P<0.05). No correlations between the changes of FA and ADC values and age were noted in CZ. In conclusion, the FA and ADC values in the normal prostatic PZ were age-dependent. FA decreases and ADC increases with age. In contrast, the FA and ADC values in the normal prostatic CZ were not significantly age-related.

[Efficacy and safety of Saw Palmetto Extract Capsules in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia].

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy and safety of Saw Palmetto Extract Capsules in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). METHODS: We conducted a multi-centered open clinical study on 165 BPH patients treated with Saw Palmetto Extract Capsules at a dose of 160 mg qd for 12 weeks. At the baseline and after 6 and 12 weeks of medication, we compared the International Prostate Symptom Scores (IPSS), prostate volume, postvoid residual urine volume, urinary flow rate, quality of life scores (QOL), and adverse events between the two groups of patients. RESULTS: Compared with the baseline, both IPSS and QOL were improved after 6 weeks of medication, and at 12 weeks, significant improvement was found in IPSS, QOL, urinary flow rate, and postvoid residual urine. Mild stomachache occurred in 1 case, which necessitated no treatment. CONCLUSION: Saw Palmetto Extract Capsules were safe and effective for the treatment of BPH.