The Cowper, Méry-Cowper, or bulbo-urethal glands are part of the male reproductive system and are involved in the formation of sperm.

Position. Even glands, Cowper’s glands are positioned on either side of the midline, below the prostate and above the bulb of the penis, constituting the root and the swollen part of the penis (2) (3).

Structure. As part of the accessory glands of the male reproductive system, Cowper’s glands each have an excretory duct. Each duct extends through the bulb of the penis to join the spongy urethra (2). The size of a pea, each gland is composed of alveoli extended by branched tubules, grouping together in lobules. All the lobules make it possible to constitute Cowper’s canals.

Vascularization and innervation. Cowper’s glands are supplied by the bulbar artery and innervated by the bulbo-urethral nerve, a terminal branch of the perineal nerve (1).

Role in sperm production. Cowper’s glands are involved in the production of seminal fluid (1). This fluid is the major component of semen and contains the elements necessary to nourish and transport sperm during ejaculation (3). In particular, it allows the proper delivery of spermatozoa to the oocyte.

Immune role. Cowper’s glands have certain cells of the immune system. These play a role in the immune defense of the lower genital tract (1). 

Syringocèle. Congenital or acquired, this pathology corresponds to a dilation of Cowper’s ducts. Few cases have been identified (1).

Cowper’s gland tumors. Rarely, tumor cells can develop in Cowper’s glands. In malignant tumors, nearby structures, such as muscles, can also be affected. Symptoms can include the appearance of a lump, pain, difficulty urinating, or constipation (1).

Cowperite calculeuse. Lithiasis or stones can develop within Cowper’s glands (1).

Medical treatment. Depending on the pathology diagnosed, certain drugs may be prescribed such as antibiotics.

Surgical treatment. Depending on the pathology diagnosed and its evolution, a surgical operation may be carried out. In the case of cancer of the Cowper’s glands, an ablation may be performed. It can also be accompanied by removal of the prostate, as well as other neighboring organs.

Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy. Depending on the type and stage of the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapy may be used to destroy cancer cells.

Proctological examination. A digital rectal exam may be done to examine Cowper’s glands.

Medical imaging exam. In order to establish or confirm a diagnosis, certain medical imaging examinations can be performed such as an abdomino-pelvic MRI, or an ultrasound.

biopsy. This examination consists of a sample of cells from the prostate and makes it possible in particular to diagnose the presence of tumor cells.

Additional tests. Additional examinations such as urine or semen analyzes may be performed.

Cowper’s glands, also named Mery-Cowper, owe their names to two anatomists. The French anatomist Jean Mery, orally and for the first time, described these glands in 1684 while the English anatomist William Cowper made the first publication on these glands in 1699 (1).