Prostate cancer primarily involves the uncontrolled growth of cells in the prostate gland. There are several types of prostate cancer, each differing in how they grow and spread. Here are the main types:

1. Adenocarcinoma

• Description: This is the most common type of prostate cancer, accounting for more than 95% of cases. Adenocarcinomas develop in the gland cells that produce prostate fluid.
• Subtypes:
  • Acinar Adenocarcinoma: The most prevalent form, originating in the gland cells lining the prostate.
  • Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Less common and more aggressive, originating in the cells lining the ducts of the prostate gland.
• Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute

2. Small Cell Carcinoma

• Description: A rare and aggressive form of prostate cancer, small cell carcinoma is a type of neuroendocrine tumor that tends to grow and spread quickly.
• Characteristics: It does not usually produce PSA (prostate-specific antigen), making it harder to detect with standard tests.
• Sources: American Cancer Society, Mayo Clinic

3. Neuroendocrine Tumors (Other than Small Cell Carcinoma)

• Description: These are rare tumors that originate in the hormone-producing cells of the prostate.
• Characteristics: Like small cell carcinoma, these tumors are aggressive and do not typically produce PSA.
• Sources: National Cancer Institute, American Cancer Society

4. Transitional Cell Carcinoma (Urothelial Cancer)

• Description: This type of cancer usually starts in the bladder and spreads to the prostate. It originates in the cells lining the urethra and can spread to the prostate.
• Characteristics: It is treated similarly to bladder cancer.
• Sources: American Cancer Society, Johns Hopkins Medicine

5. Squamous Cell Carcinoma

• Description: A very rare type of prostate cancer that originates in the flat cells covering the prostate gland.
• Characteristics: Squamous cell carcinoma is more aggressive and tends to grow and spread faster than adenocarcinoma.
• Sources: Mayo Clinic, National Cancer Institute

6. Sarcomas

• Description: Another rare form, sarcomas originate in the connective tissues of the prostate, such as muscle or fat.
• Types: Leiomyosarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma are examples of sarcomas that can occur in the prostate.
• Sources: American Cancer Society, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Summary

Prostate cancer can manifest in various forms, with adenocarcinoma being the most common. Each type of prostate cancer has distinct characteristics and implications for treatment. Understanding the specific type of prostate cancer is crucial for determining the most effective treatment plan.

Further Reading

• American Cancer Society: What Is Prostate Cancer?
• National Cancer Institute: Prostate Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version
• Mayo Clinic: Prostate Cancer
• Johns Hopkins Medicine: Types of Prostate Cancer