Long-term testosterone stimulation induces hyperplasia in the guinea-pig prostate

Prostate Cancer Prostatic Dis. 2004;7(3):227-31. doi: 10.1038/sj.pcan.4500744.

Abstract

The relation between supraphysiologic circulating testosterone levels and prostatic diseases is unclear and difficult to study in men. Animal models may be advantageous. Based on a pilot study, testosterone enantate 50 mg (n=12) or 25 mg (n=12) was administered to guinea-pigs intramuscularly every 3 weeks, for either 7 or 14 months. The histopathology of the prostate was described. Epithelial hyperplasia was found in 14/21 animals receiving testosterone and in 7/12 very old animals, but no such changes were found in the sham or castrated animals. Testosterone stimulation seems to induce epithelial hyperplasia, but not cancer, in the guinea-pig prostate.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Guinea Pigs
  • Hyperplasia
  • Male
  • Prostate / drug effects*
  • Prostate / pathology
  • Testosterone / toxicity*

Substances

  • Testosterone