The immunocytochemical detection of protein hormones in human prostatic tissues.

The immunocytochemical detection of four pituitary protein hormones in tissue from 13 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia has been described. There have been marked differences in the distribution and intensity of reaction product attributable to the various hormonal antisera. The intracellular presence of endogenous prolactin and FSH in the epithelial cytoplasm has been suggested together with the stromal localization of growth hormone and prolactin. Minimal diffuse staining over most cellular components was observed with the LH antiserum. This technique has provided an invaluable means of studying the potential involvement of pituitary protein hormones in the control of prostatic function and disease.