Reproduced in EORTC Genitourinary Group Monogrpah 10.
Urological Oncology, Reconstructive Surgery, Organ Conservation, and
Restoration of Function. pp. 249-255 (1991). Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Summary:
In 1960, there were 26 eunuchs from the palace of the Qing Dynasty
still living in Beijing. The authors took that unique opportunity of
carrying out a general physical examination, including palpation of
the prostate, for every one of them. Their average age then was 72 years
(59-83 years). They became eunuchs at the age of 10-26 years. The prostate
was impalpable in 26 (81%) and 1-2 cm in width rectally in five, with
a flat surface. At the time of the examination, they had been eunuchs
on the average for 54 years (41-65 years). This is probably the largest
series of human beings followed for such a long period of time to confirm
that testicular hormone is essential for the development and preservation
of the prostate. The type of operation, the traditional way of carrying
out the operation and the usual complications are presented.
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