Special Histology and Embryology: A Practical Course - V. K. Napkhanyuk 2001

Reproductive System
Male Reproductive System
Bulbourethral Glands

The bulbourethral glands (glandulae bulbourethrales) are complex tubuloalveolar glands whose ducts open into the upper part of the Urethra.

The terminal secretory portions of the bulbourethral glands are formed by flat, cuboidal, or columnar mucous Cells, whose Cytoplasm contains mucoid droplets and characteristic rod-like inclusions.

The terminal secretory units are surrounded by layers of loose irregular Connective Tissue containing bundles of smooth Muscle cells.

Slide 3. Section of the human Prostate Gland (Fig. 73).

Low magnification. Examine and draw the slide. It is clearly visible that the prostate is a lobular organ. Externally, it is covered by a Cytology/practical/45.html">Dense connective tissue capsule containing smooth Muscles, fat cells, and Blood Vessels. Trabeculae, or septa, extend inward from the capsule; they share the same Structure as the capsule and divide the gland into lobes. The secretory units in cross-sections vary greatly in shape and feature uneven, folded contours. These units are surrounded by a basement membrane and lined with a simple columnar epithelium.

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Fig. 73. Section of the human prostate gland. Hematoxylin and eosin staining. ×200:

1 — secretory unit; 2 — Glandular Epithelium; 3 — prostatic concretions; 4 — interlobular connective tissue; 5 — bundles of Smooth Muscle tissue

High magnification. The terminal secretory units should be examined at this magnification. It can be seen that their wall is formed by large secretory exocrinocytes with vesicular nuclei and small cells located at the Base of the secretory cells.

Numerous bundles of smooth muscle cells and abundant blood vessels, especially around the urethra, are located between the glandular units.

Spherical structures—prostatic concretions (thickened glandular secretion)—can be seen within the lumen of the secretory units.

Label the following on the diagram: 1) secretory unit; 2) glandular epithelium; 3) prostatic concretions; 4) interlobular connective tissue; 5) bundles of smooth muscle tissue.



Last update: 10/08/2026

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