Smooth chorion is a term used in obstetrics to describe the outermost membrane that surrounds the developing embryo. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) system. The "s" in "smooth" is pronounced as /smuð/ (voiced dental fricative), while "chorion" is pronounced as /kɔːrɪɒn/ (noun, stressing on the second syllable). The combination of these two words creates the term "smooth chorion," which is commonly used in the medical field to describe the protective layer that surrounds the developing fetus in the uterus.
Smooth chorion refers to the outermost membrane surrounding a developing fetus in humans and other mammals. It is one of two types of chorion, the innermost being the villous chorion. The smooth chorion is characterized by its smooth and thin texture, without the distinctive finger-like projections called chorionic villi that are present in the villous chorion.
During pregnancy, after the fertilized egg implants itself into the uterus wall, the chorionic membrane forms and envelopes the developing embryo. The smooth chorion serves as a protective layer and provides a barrier between the developing fetus and the mother's blood supply.
The smooth chorion does not play a significant role in nutrient exchange between the mother and the fetus, as this function is primarily carried out by the villous chorion. Instead, it acts as a support structure, providing stability and maintaining the integrity of the developing sac.
The smooth chorion remains intact until the later stages of pregnancy when it fuses with the amnion, another membrane that surrounds and protects the fetus. This fusion eventually forms the amniotic sac which contains amniotic fluid, providing cushioning and maintaining a stable environment for the developing fetus.
In summary, the smooth chorion is the outer membrane of the developing fetus that lacks chorionic villi and provides structural support and protection during pregnancy.
C. Laeve.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "smooth" comes from the Old English word "smōth" which means "even, level, gentle". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "smōthaz" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*smad-" meaning "to smooth, rub". The word "chorion" comes from the Greek word "chorion" which means "skin, membrane". Together, "smooth chorion" refers to a smooth outer layer or membrane, especially in the context of biology or embryology.