Prostate Volume Formula:
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Definition: This calculator estimates the volume of a normal prostate gland using the ellipsoid formula based on length, width, and height measurements.
Purpose: It helps medical professionals assess prostate size, which is important for diagnosing conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
The calculator uses the ellipsoid formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula approximates the prostate as an ellipsoid shape, with π/6 (≈0.52) being the shape factor for ellipsoids.
Details: Prostate volume assessment helps in evaluating prostate health, planning treatments, and determining PSA density (PSA divided by volume).
Tips: Enter the prostate dimensions in centimeters as measured by ultrasound, MRI, or digital rectal exam. All values must be > 0.
Q1: What is a normal prostate volume?
A: Typically 20-30 cm³ in young men, may increase to 30-40 cm³ with age (BPH can cause volumes >40 cm³).
Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate but may vary ±15% from actual volume due to prostate shape variations.
Q3: What imaging methods provide these measurements?
A: Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) is most common, but MRI and CT can also be used.
Q4: How does volume relate to prostate weight?
A: Volume in cm³ ≈ weight in grams (assuming tissue density of 1.05 g/cm³).
Q5: When is prostate volume most important?
A: When evaluating BPH symptoms, planning surgery, or calculating PSA density for cancer risk assessment.