Normal prostate from apex to base in a 54-year-old male (axial plane). (a) Axial T2WI at the level of the apex. The apex consists of the distal part of the prostatic urethra (white arrow) surrounded by high signal intensity, loosely packed peripheral zone tissue (∗). The rectum is located posteriorly (R) and is distended by an endorectal coil. The levator ani muscles are located laterally (L). Normal prostate from apex to base in a 54-year-old male (axial plane). (b) At the midgland level, the densely packed central/transition zones are surrounded by high signal-intensity peripheral zone tissue (∗), subdivided by several stromal septa which are designated by thin dark T2 signal linear bands. The anterior fibromuscular stroma is a dark T2 band of tissue located anteriorly (arrow). The rectoprostatic angle is depicted posteriorly (arrowheads). Normal prostate from apex to base in a 54-year-old male (axial plane). (c) Base level. The prostatic base is generally composed of almost entirely central zone/transition zone (CZ/TZ); however, a large amount of peripheral zone (∗) is noted in this individual. Neurovascular bundles are located posterolaterally (arrows). In addition, the ejaculatory ducts are noted at this level (arrowheads). B: bladder; R: rectum (with endorectal coil).
