Análisis comparativo del tamaño prostático en canes (Canis lupus familiaris) enteros y castrados diagnosticados mediante ecografía.

Abstract

The prostate is the main accessory gland of the male canine reproductive system and plays an important role in seminal fluid production, supporting sperm viability. Its size and morphology depend on factors such as age, body weight, breed, body size, and reproductive status. In intact dogs, continuous androgenic stimulation maintains a larger and generally symmetrical prostate, whereas castration leads to glandular involution, reduced size, and a lower incidence of hormone-related disorders. Ultrasound is a non-invasive and effective diagnostic method for evaluating prostatic dimensions and detecting potential clinical alterations. The aim of this study was to compare prostate size in intact and castrated dogs by determining length, width, thickness, and volume, and relating these variables to age, weight, and reproductive status. The study corresponded to an applied research design with a quantitative approach, non-experimental design, and descriptive-correlational scope. A total of 90 dogs were evaluated, including 50 intact and 40 castrated individuals. For statistical analysis, data were first organized in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, where descriptive statistics were performed; subsequently, a 2×3×3 factorial analysis was conducted using StatGraphics software, along with an analysis of variance and a least significant difference test, considering a significance level of p < 0.05. Results showed that intact dogs presented larger prostatic dimensions. Significant differences were found according to reproductive status in all variables and according to weight in length and width, whereas age and interactions between variables showed no significant differences.