Microscopic Female Anatomy Flashcards

Flashcards for reviewing female microscopic anatomy lecture notes.

Folliculogenesis

The development of follicles from their initial stage as a primordial follicle through their final stage as a Graafian follicle and ovulation.

Primordial follicles

Follicles of the ovary present at birth and decrease in number as the female matures.

Primary follicles

Follicles of the ovary that remain at this stage until puberty. Most never ovulate and undergo atresia.

Secondary Follicles

Follicles of the ovary with an increase in granulosa cell layers and formation of the zona pellucida, theca interna, and theca externa.

Tertiary Follicles

Maturing follicles of the ovary with antrum formation (fluid-filled space containing liquor folliculi).

Graafian Follicle

Similar structures as tertiary follicle; Layers & fluid increase -large, blister-like structure forms on surface of ovary. Capable of ovulation, dependent on LH surge

Antrum (liquor folliculi)

Large fluid filled space in tertiary follicle

Luteogenesis

The formation of a corpus luteum.

Luteolysis

The regression of a corpus luteum.

Corpus hemorrhagicum (CH)

Newly ruptured follicle; essentially a blood clot.

Corpus luteum (CL)

Yellow structure; temporary endocrine gland, produces progesterone.

Corpus albicans (CA)

Remains after CL regresses.

Cystic follicles

Failure of a Graafian follicle to ovulate; persists on the ovary and continues to grow, producing high amounts of estradiol and can cause the animal to show a continued estrus behavior

Luteal Cysts

Occur when theca interna cells do not fill the cavity that is created upon ovulation (the rupturing of the follicle). They can cause abnormal estrous cycles and early embryonic mortality.

Persistent Corpus Luteum

The failure of the CL to regress. It causes a suppression of the estrous cycle due its resemblance to pregnancy (i.e., progesterone is still produced and the body falsely identifies this state as a pregnancy).

Endometrium

The inner lining of the uterus, consisting of the mucosa and submucosa.

Myometrium

The muscular layer of the uterus.

Perimetrium

The outer serosal layer of the uterus.