Nonspecific inflammatory lesions of the prostate. Spectrum and patterns.

Nonspecific inflammatory lesions of the prostate are described and illustrated. The spectrum of inflammation in this group of lesions caused by exposure of prostatic secretions to, or their escape into, the stroma has not been fully recognized. Inflammation ranges from acute, through chronic lymphoplasmacytic to granulomatous. The pathogenesis is primarily a defect in the acinar or ductal epithelium caused by prostatic secretion. The difference between these lesions and infective lesions is emphasized. The term ectasia prostatitis is suggested for this group of inflammatory lesions.