Erectile tissue

Tissue in the body that becomes engorged with blood

Erectile tissue is a specialized type of tissue found in certain parts of the body that becomes engorged with blood, leading to an increase in size and rigidity. This physiological process is most commonly associated with the penis and clitoris, but erectile tissue is also present in other areas such as the nasal cavity and the nipples.

Structure

Erectile tissue is composed of numerous blood vessels and vascular spaces that can fill with blood. The primary components of erectile tissue include:

• Corpora cavernosa: These are two cylindrical structures found in the penis and clitoris. They are made up of spongy tissue that can fill with blood, leading to an erection.
• Corpus spongiosum: This is a single cylindrical structure that surrounds the urethra in the penis and helps to maintain the urethral opening during erection.

The tissue is surrounded by a fibrous sheath called the tunica albuginea, which helps maintain the shape and rigidity of the engorged tissue.

Function

The primary function of erectile tissue is to facilitate sexual reproduction by enabling copulation. In males, the engorgement of erectile tissue in the penis results in an erection, which is necessary for penetration during sexual intercourse. In females, the clitoral erection enhances sexual arousal and sensitivity.

Erectile tissue also plays a role in other physiological processes. For example, the erectile tissue in the nasal cavity can become engorged, affecting airflow and contributing to the regulation of nasal cycle.

Mechanism of Erection

The process of erection involves a complex interaction of nervous system signals and vascular changes. The key steps include:

1. Stimulation: Sexual arousal triggers the release of nitric oxide (NO) in the erectile tissue. 2. Vasodilation: NO causes the relaxation of smooth muscle in the blood vessels, leading to increased blood flow into the erectile tissue. 3. Engorgement: The vascular spaces fill with blood, causing the tissue to expand and become rigid. 4. Maintenance: The tunica albuginea helps trap the blood within the erectile tissue, maintaining the erection. 5. Detumescence: After stimulation ends, the blood drains from the erectile tissue, and the erection subsides.

Clinical Significance

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition where the ability to achieve or maintain an erection is impaired. It can result from various factors, including vascular disease, neurological disorders, hormonal imbalances, and psychological issues.

Treatment options for ED include phosphodiesterase inhibitors (such as sildenafil), hormone therapy, psychotherapy, and surgical interventions.

Related pages

• Penis
• Clitoris
• Erection
• Erectile dysfunction
• Nitric oxide

Erectile_tissue

• 

  Gray's Anatomy illustration of erectile tissue

• 

  Clitoral body, internal anatomy