S1 The Male Repro System Flashcards
Where does spermatogenesis occur, then what happens to sperm in the testes?
Spermatogenesis occurs in the seminiferous tubule.
Sperm then enter rete testes then efferent ductules where they become concentrated.
Sperm then mature in the epididymis and leave via vas deferens.
What is a hydrocele?
Accumulation of serous fluid in tunica vaginalis. Haematocele is blood
How do you distinguish between a hydrocele and haematocele?
Transillumination with a torch.
Hydrocele is transparent, haematocele is not
Describe the features of a varicocele
Pampiniform veins become enlarged.
Commonly on the left side as the left vein drains straight into renal vein then IVC.
Feels like a bag of worms
Role of serotoli cells?
Sperm maturation
Role of leydig cells?
Testosterone production
Describe testicular torsion
Testes twist on their spermatic cord occluding the blood supply, get testis necrosis.
Can lead to scrotal swelling and infertility.
Due to testes having a bell-clapper deformity
NB scrotal swelling can also be caused by testicular cancer or hydrocele
How does the spermatic cord form?
The testes invaginate the abdominal wall as they are pulled through by the gubernaculum, this forms the spermatic fascia that surrounds the testes
What does the spermatic cord comprise?
3 fascia layers - internal, cremasteric, external
3 arteries/veins - testicular, cremasteric, to the vas
3 nerves - ilioinguinal, cremasteric, sympathetic (ejaculation)
What is the cremasteric reflex?
Raises the testes to reach optimal temperature for sperm
Which zone of the prostate does BPH affect?
Transitional zone, can compress urethra causing urinary frequency
Which zone of the prostate does prostate cancer affect?
Peripheral, this is the region felt in a rectal exam.
NB local metastasis can occur to spine due to close proximity
What occurs in the penis to cause an erection?
Vasodilation of arterioles and venous compression
Describe the cross section of a penis
Alien:
Eyes - corpus cavernosa
Mouth - corpus spongiosum
What are the lymphatics of the testes?
Para-aortic lymph nodes
