Male Reproductive System: Vocabulary: Videos & Practice Problems

Understanding male reproductive system pathology involves recognizing conditions like condyloma, caused by HPV warts, Peyronie disease with fibrous plaque causing penile curvature, priapism as prolonged erection, testicular torsion cutting off blood flow, and trichomoniasis, a mostly asymptomatic STI. Diagnostic tests include the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) assay for prostate disorders, androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) to reduce testosterone fueling prostate cancer, and syphilis screening via VDRL followed by FTA-ABS confirmation. These terms and tests are essential for diagnosing and managing male reproductive health effectively.

Pathology Concept 1

The male reproductive system can be affected by various clinical disorders, each with distinct pathological features. One common condition is condyloma, which refers to soft, gray, wart-like growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These growths typically appear in the genital or anal regions. The term "condyloma" derives from the combining form condylo-, meaning "knuckle," because these warts resemble knuckles in appearance.

Peyronie disease involves the formation of fibrous plaque on the erectile tissue of the penis, often resulting from physical trauma. This scarring leads to an abnormal curvature of the penis, which can be painful and cause deformity. The buildup of plaque restricts normal tissue elasticity, causing the characteristic bending during erection.

Priapism is a condition characterized by a prolonged and persistent erection lasting more than four hours. This sustained erection is often painful and can lead to tissue damage if not treated promptly. The term can be remembered by imagining a soldier ("private") standing at full attention for an extended period, symbolizing the persistent erection.

Testicular torsion occurs when the testicles twist, cutting off blood flow and causing severe pain and swelling. This is a medical emergency because prolonged interruption of blood supply can lead to irreversible damage. The twisting can be visualized as a "terrible tangle," emphasizing the urgency of immediate medical intervention.

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a protozoan parasite affecting the lower genitourinary tract. In males, it is often asymptomatic, meaning most infected men do not show symptoms, which makes it a "tricky STI." This asymptomatic nature can lead to unnoticed transmission and potential complications if left untreated.

Understanding these conditions involves recognizing their causes, symptoms, and potential complications. The terminology often reflects the physical characteristics or effects of the disorders, aiding in memorization and clinical identification. Awareness of these pathologies is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment, preventing long-term damage to the male reproductive system.

Pathology Example 1

Peyronie disease is characterized by the abnormal growth of fibrous tissue in the penile shaft, leading to a painful curvature of the penis. This condition is not caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or a biological infection requiring antibiotics. Instead, it results from the buildup of fibrous plaques, which are scar-like tissues, rather than ossification or bone formation. The development of these fibrous plaques is often linked to trauma or injury to the penile tissue, which triggers the abnormal tissue growth and subsequent deformity. Treatment options may vary, but the key pathological feature is the fibrous tissue buildup causing the curvature, distinguishing Peyronie disease from infections or bone-related conditions.

What percentage of people infected with trichomoniasis don’t experience any noticeable symptoms? 

• A. 0%  
• B. Less than 50% 
• C. More than 50% 
• D. 100% 

Answer: (C)

Diagnostic and Laboratory Terms Concept 2

Understanding diagnostic and laboratory tests related to the male reproductive system is essential for identifying and managing various conditions. One key test is the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) assay, a blood test that measures the concentration of PSA protein. Elevated PSA levels can indicate potential prostate disorders, including prostate cancer, making this test a crucial screening tool.

Treatment approaches such as Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT) play a significant role in managing prostate cancer. ADT works by reducing the levels of male sex hormones, primarily testosterone, produced by the testes. Since these hormones act as fuel for prostate cancer growth, lowering their concentration helps inhibit tumor development and progression.

In the context of sexually transmitted infections, the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test serves as a broad screening method for detecting antibodies called reagins, which are associated with syphilis and other conditions. A positive VDRL test suggests the presence of these antibodies but requires confirmation.

For definitive diagnosis of syphilis, the Fluorescent Treponemal Antibody Absorption (FTA-ABS) test is used. This test specifically detects antibodies against Treponema pallidum, the bacterium responsible for syphilis. The diagnostic process typically involves an initial VDRL screening followed by the FTA-ABS confirmation to ensure accurate detection.

These diagnostic and laboratory tests are integral to the effective evaluation and treatment of male reproductive health issues, from prostate cancer to infectious diseases like syphilis, highlighting the importance of precise testing and targeted therapies.

Diagnostic and Laboratory Terms Example 2

Long-term androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is primarily used to inhibit the growth of prostate cancer by reducing male sex hormones, particularly testosterone. Since prostate tumors rely on these hormones to grow, lowering their levels helps control cancer progression. However, this hormonal reduction leads to several physiological and psychological effects.

One of the most common outcomes of decreased testosterone is a reduction in libido and testicular size, as these hormones directly influence sexual drive and reproductive organ maintenance. Additionally, patients often experience increased body fat and weight gain because lower testosterone levels reduce the body's ability to maintain lean muscle mass. This hormonal imbalance can also contribute to mood swings, depression, anxiety, and fatigue, reflecting the role of sex hormones in emotional regulation.

Conversely, increased muscle mass and enhanced physical strength are unlikely during long-term ADT. Since testosterone is crucial for muscle protein synthesis and strength development, its suppression leads to muscle atrophy and diminished physical performance. Therefore, the least likely occurrence in someone undergoing prolonged androgen deprivation therapy is an increase in muscle mass and strength.

Understanding these effects highlights the importance of monitoring patients on ADT for changes in body composition, mood, and physical function, ensuring comprehensive care during prostate cancer treatment.

What is the major reason in taking an FTA-ABS test?

• A. Confirmation of a positive test result from a non-treponemal screening test.
• B. To gauge the effectiveness of syphilis treatment.
• C. To distinguish between the varying stages of syphilis.
• D. To serve as a diagnostic tool in determining the origin of a syphilis infection.

Answer: (A)

Here’s what students ask on this topic:

What is condyloma and how is it related to HPV in the male reproductive system?

Condyloma refers to soft, gray, wart-like growths that appear on the genitals or anal region, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The term "condyloma" comes from the combining form "condylo," meaning knuckle, because these growths resemble knuckles. In the male reproductive system, condyloma is a clinical disorder indicating HPV infection, which is a common sexually transmitted infection. These warts can cause discomfort and may require medical treatment to prevent spreading. Understanding condyloma is important for recognizing HPV-related pathologies in males and managing their reproductive health effectively.

What causes Peyronie disease and what are its effects on the male reproductive system?

Peyronie disease is caused by the buildup of fibrous plaque on the erectile tissue of the penis, often resulting from physical trauma. This scarring leads to an abnormal curvature of the penis, which can be painful and cause deformity. The plaque restricts normal tissue flexibility, making erections uncomfortable or difficult. This condition is significant in the male reproductive system because it affects sexual function and can cause psychological distress. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to manage symptoms and prevent progression.

What is priapism and why is it considered a medical emergency?

Priapism is a prolonged and persistent erection of the penis lasting more than four hours, unrelated to sexual stimulation. It is often painful and can cause tissue damage if not treated promptly. Priapism is considered a medical emergency because the prolonged erection cuts off normal blood flow, leading to swelling and potential permanent damage to erectile tissue. Immediate medical attention is necessary to relieve the condition and prevent long-term complications such as erectile dysfunction.

How is testicular torsion diagnosed and why is urgent treatment necessary?

Testicular torsion occurs when the spermatic cord twists, cutting off blood flow to the testicle. This causes sudden, severe pain and swelling. Diagnosis is typically based on clinical symptoms and confirmed with ultrasound imaging to assess blood flow. Urgent treatment is necessary because prolonged loss of blood supply can cause irreversible damage to the testicle, potentially leading to loss of the testicle. Immediate surgical intervention is required to untwist the cord and restore circulation.

What are the key diagnostic tests for prostate disorders and how do they work?

The primary diagnostic test for prostate disorders is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) assay, which measures the concentration of PSA protein in the blood. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer or other prostate conditions. Another important approach is androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), which reduces male hormone levels to slow prostate cancer growth. For sexually transmitted infections like syphilis, the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test screens for antibodies, and the fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTA-ABS) test confirms the diagnosis. These tests are essential for accurate detection and management of male reproductive system disorders.

What is trichomoniasis and why is it called a "tricky" STI in males?

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a protozoan parasite affecting the lower genitourinary tract. It is often called a "tricky" STI because most males infected with trichomoniasis are asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms. This asymptomatic nature makes it difficult to detect and treat early, increasing the risk of unknowingly spreading the infection. In some cases, symptoms may appear, but the majority of male carriers remain unaware, which is why regular screening and safe sexual practices are important.