Can Women Develop Prostate-Like Cancer? Understanding Skene’s Gland Adenocarcinoma

Women do not have a prostate gland, so the disease known as prostate cancer affects only men. However, the female body has an equivalent structure called the Skene’s gland. This small gland shares embryonic origins and some functions with the male prostate. In extremely rare cases, it can develop the same type of tumour—an adenocarcinoma that may even test positive for PSA, the marker used in prostate screening. Because symptoms often mimic more common urinary or vaginal issues, diagnosis can be delayed. A thorough exam, imaging studies, and a biopsy are essential. Treatment usually follows prostate cancer protocols, including surgery, radiation, hormone therapy or chemotherapy. Awareness of this rare condition can speed up diagnosis and improve outcomes. It highlights our shared developmental biology and underscores the need for careful investigation of persistent urethral or urinary symptoms in women.

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