S1) The Man Flashcards
Label the following structures in the male reproductive system:
What are Sertoli cells?
Sertoli cells are the somatic cells of the testis that are essential for testis formation and spermatogenesis
Where are Sertoli cells found?
Found in the seminiferous tubule
What are Leydig cells and what do they do?
- Leydig cells are interstitial cells of Leydig, are found adjacent to the seminiferous tubules in the testicle.
- Produce testosterone in the presence of LH
In three steps, explain what happens during testicular torsion
⇒ The spermatic cord twist upon itself
⇒ This occludes the blood supply (testicular artery)
⇒ Pressure builds up and necrosis of testis results
Can testicles swap sides?
No, as a scrotal septum separates the two testicles
Describe the process in which the testes push through the abdominal wall
- The testes evaginate the abdominal wall as they are pulled through by the gubernaculum
- This forms the spermatic fascia (made of layers of abdominal muscle)
What are the three fascial layers in the spermatic cord?
- Internal fascia
- Cremasteric fascia
- External fascia
Identify the three arteries supplying the spermatic cord
- Testicular artery
- Artery to vas
- Cremasteric artery
Identify the three veins draining the spermatic cord
- Testicular vein
- Vein to vas
- Cremasteric vein
Identify the three nerves innervating the spermatic cord
- Ilioinguinal nerve
- Nerve to cremaster (genital branch of genitofemoral nerve)
- Sympathetic
What happens during a vasectomy?
- Vas deferens are sectioned
- Sealed/tied to prevent sperm from entering into the urethra
- Prevents fertilisation
What are the consequences to the sperm count after a vasectomy?
Sperm count reduces
What are the consequences to the composition of the ejaculate after a vasectomy?
- No visible difference
- Semen is made in accesory glands and sperm only composes 2-5%
Which nerve is responsible for the cremasteric reflex?
Muscular reflex of genitofemoral nerve in males
What does the prostate do?
- Maintains urinary continence (surrounds urethra)
- Creates an alkali secretion
- Propels seminal fluid into urethra during ejaculation
Which zones in the prostate does cancer and BPH affect?
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia affects transitional zone
- Prostate cancers tend to be in peripheral zone
What are the functions of the penis?
- Expulsion of urine via urethra
- Deposition of sperm in female genital tract
Describe the processes that guide erection
- Vasodilatation in penile arterioles, and compression of veins results in erection (parasympathetic)
- Erection is terminated by vasoconstriction (sympathetic)