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M01.10.15 Bulbourethral gland
The bulbourethral glands (also called Cowper’s glands) are paired, small, pea-shaped exocrine glands located in the deep perineal pouch, just inferior to the prostate gland. These glands play a crucial role in the male reproductive system by contributing to the pre-ejaculatory fluid.
Structural Features
Capsule and Stroma
- The glands are enclosed by a fibroelastic capsule.
- Septa from the capsule divide the gland into lobules.
- The stroma is rich in smooth muscle fibers, which assist in the secretion of glandular products.
Parenchyma
- The parenchyma of the bulbourethral gland consists of:
- Compound tubuloalveolar glands lined with mucus-secreting columnar epithelium.
- Secretory cells have a basal nucleus and apical mucin granules, which are characteristic of mucin-secreting cells.
Secretory Product
- The gland secretes a clear, viscous mucus rich in glycoproteins.
- Functions of the secretion:
- Neutralizes acidity in the urethra from residual urine.
- Lubricates the urethra for spermatozoa passage.
Low and medium-power microscopic
Duct System
- The ducts of the gland are lined by simple cuboidal to columnar epithelium.
- The ducts converge to form a single excretory duct that opens into the proximal part of the penile (spongy) urethra.
Histological Features Under the Microscope
| Component | Appearance |
|---|---|
| Capsule | Fibroelastic connective tissue, dense appearance with septa dividing lobules. |
| Secretory Units | Tubuloalveolar glands with pale-staining mucin-secreting epithelium. |
| Epithelium Type | Simple columnar in the gland; simple cuboidal/columnar in ducts. |
| Stromal Cells | Smooth muscle fibers and fibroblasts interspersed with connective tissue. |
Key Points to Remember
- Location: Deep perineal pouch, below the prostate gland.
- Structure: Compound tubuloalveolar gland with lobules.
- Function: Produces pre-ejaculatory fluid for lubrication and neutralization.
- Microscopy: Simple columnar epithelium in glands; ducts lined by cuboidal to columnar epithelium.
Clinical Correlation
- Bulbourethral gland inflammation (Cowper’s glanditis): Can result from infections like gonorrhea.
- Dysfunction or obstruction of these glands may lead to discomfort and reduced lubrication during ejaculation.
References
- Ross, M. H., & Pawlina, W. (2018). Histology: A Text and Atlas. 8th Edition. Wolters Kluwer.
- Junqueira, L. C., & Carneiro, J. (2013). Basic Histology: Text and Atlas. 13th Edition. McGraw-Hill.