Tunica vaginalis
Tunica Vaginalis
The Tunica Vaginalis (pronounced: too-ni-ka va-gi-na-lis) is a pouch of serous membrane that covers the testes. It is derived from the processus vaginalis of the peritoneum, which in the fetus precedes the descent of the testes from the abdomen into the scrotum. After the testis has descended, the processus vaginalis is obliterated above and forms the Tunica Vaginalis.
Etymology
The term "Tunica Vaginalis" is derived from Latin, where "tunica" means "coat" or "covering", and "vaginalis" refers to "sheath". Thus, the term can be translated as "sheath-like covering".
Structure
The Tunica Vaginalis is composed of two layers: the visceral layer, which is attached to the testis and epididymis, and the parietal layer, which lines the inner wall of the scrotum. The space between these two layers is filled with a small amount of serous fluid, which allows the layers to slide over each other with minimal friction.
Related Terms
- Testes: The male reproductive glands where sperm are produced.
- Scrotum: The pouch of skin and muscle that contains the testes.
- Epididymis: A long, coiled tube that rests on the backside of each testicle. It transports and stores sperm cells that are produced in the testes.
- Peritoneum: The serous membrane that forms the lining of the abdominal cavity.
See Also
- Hydrocele: A type of swelling in the scrotum that occurs when fluid collects in the thin sheath surrounding a testicle.
- Testicular torsion: A serious condition caused by the spermatic cord to the testicle becoming twisted, cutting off the testicle's blood supply.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tunica vaginalis
- Wikipedia's article - Tunica vaginalis
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