Tunic vasculosa is a Latin term used in anatomy to describe the outermost layer of the eye, which consists of blood vessels and fibrous tissue. The word is spelled /ˈtjuːnɪk væsˈkjuːləʊsə/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the second syllable of both words. The spelling reflects the Latin roots of the term, with "tunic" coming from "tunica" and "vasculosa" meaning "full of vessels". Understanding the correct spelling of medical terms is crucial for clear communication among healthcare professionals.
Tunic vasculosa refers to the vascular layer or tunic within the embryonic eye. It is an important part of the eye structure that develops during early stages of embryonic development. In particular, it is a layer that is derived from the primary optic vesicle, which eventually forms the optic cup.
The tunic vasculosa consists of a network of blood vessels that surround and provide nourishment to the retina of the developing eye. This network of blood vessels originates from the hyaloid artery, a branch of the primitive ophthalmic artery. It extends into the developing vitreous body and supplies the inner layers of the retina.
The primary function of the tunic vasculosa is to provide oxygen and nutrients to the dividing cells of the retina and choroid during embryonic development. As the embryo continues to grow, the tunic vasculosa gradually regresses and disappears, allowing the retinal blood vessels to take over the role of nourishing the retinal tissue.
Pathological conditions known as persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV) or persistent fetal vasculature (PFV) can occur when the regression of the tunic vasculosa is incomplete. These conditions can lead to abnormal blood vessels and fibrous tissue formation within the eye, causing visual impairment or other complications.
In summary, the tunic vasculosa is a temporary vascular layer within the embryonic eye that supplies nutrients to the developing retina. It regresses during development, allowing the retinal blood vessels to take over this vital role.
Any vascular layer.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "tunic vasculosa" is derived from Latin and consists of two words: "tunic" and "vasculosa".
The word "tunic" comes from the Latin word "tunica", which referred to a garment or a covering. In anatomy, it is used to describe a layer or covering of tissue.
The word "vasculosa" is also derived from Latin, specifically from the word "vasculum", which means "a small vessel" or "a container". In anatomy, it is used to describe the presence or abundance of blood vessels or vascular tissue.
Therefore, "tunic vasculosa" can be understood as a term used in anatomy to describe a layer of tissue that contains a significant number of blood vessels or has a vascular nature.