Assessment of exfoliated prostate cells in semen: relationship with the secretory function of the prostate.

The percentage of exfoliated prostate cells (EPCs) in 139 semen specimens was determined. A receiver operating characteristic curve showed a cutoff of 17% for EPCs, and specimens were distributed into 4 groups: EPCs 17% or fewer without (group 1; n=44) and with (group 2; n=31) leukocytospermia and EPCs more than 17% without (group 3; n=39) and with (group 4; n=25) leukocytospermia. Acid phosphatase, calcium, and zinc levels; volume and pH of ejaculate; and leukocyte count were assessed. Between groups 1 and 2, the only significant difference was in leukocyte count (P<.001). Between groups 3 and 4, differences were significant in zinc levels (P=.026) and leukocyte count (P<.001). Comparisons of groups 1 and 2 vs 3 and 4 showed lower levels of acid phosphatase activity (P=.017) and calcium (P=.019), and increased seminal volume (P=.019) between groups 1 and 3. Between groups 2 and 4, the difference was significant only in leukocyte count (P<.001). EPCs of 17% or fewer with and without leukocytospermia suggest normal prostate function; EPCs of more than 17% without leukocytospermia suggest abnormal function. EPCs of more than 17% with leukocytospermia were inconclusive.