Vitelline veins

Vitelline veins are a pair of veins that drain blood from the yolk sac to the sinus venosus in the developing embryo. They are part of the cardiovascular system and play a crucial role in the formation of the portal vein and inferior vena cava.

Etymology

The term "vitelline" is derived from the Latin word "vitellus" which means "yolk". This is a reference to the veins' connection to the yolk sac in the embryo.

Development

The vitelline veins develop during the third week of embryogenesis. They initially form as a pair of symmetrical structures that drain the yolk sac into the sinus venosus. As development progresses, the veins undergo a series of transformations that result in the formation of the portal vein and the inferior vena cava.

Function

The primary function of the vitelline veins is to transport blood from the yolk sac to the heart. The yolk sac is a temporary structure that provides nutrients to the developing embryo before the placenta is fully formed. The blood carried by the vitelline veins is rich in nutrients and oxygen, which are essential for the growth and development of the embryo.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the development of the vitelline veins can lead to a variety of congenital heart defects. These can include portal vein thrombosis, portal hypertension, and budd-chiari syndrome. These conditions can have serious health implications and may require medical intervention.

See also

• Yolk sac
• Sinus venosus
• Portal vein
• Inferior vena cava

References

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