Processus vaginalis
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The processus vaginalis (or vaginal process) is an embryonic developmental outpouching of the peritoneum.
It is present from around the 12th week of gestation, and commences as a peritoneal outpouching.
Gender differences
In males, it precedes the testis in their descent down within the gubernaculum, and closes. This closure occurs at any point from a few weeks before birth, to a few weeks after birth. The remaining portion around the testes becomes the tunica vaginalis. [1]
It does not close in females. Instead, it forms the canal of Nuck. [2]
Clinical significance
Failure of closure of the processus vaginalis leads to the propensity to develop a number of abnormalities.
Peritoneal fluid can travel down a patent processus vaginalis leading to the formation of a hydrocele.
There is the potential for an inguinal hernia to develop, although not all people with a patent processus vaginalis will develop one. The more patent the processus vaginalis, the more likely the patient is to develope a hernia.
Persistent patent processus vaginalis more common on the right than the left.
See also
References
- ↑ "Chapter 34: Male genitalia". Retrieved 2007-12-01.
- ↑ "Definition: processus vaginalis of peritoneum from Online Medical Dictionary". Retrieved 2007-12-01.