Cardinal vein

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Cardinal Vein

File:Gray's Anatomy image.jpg
Illustration of the Cardinal Vein from Gray's Anatomy

The Cardinal Vein is a significant component of the embryonic circulatory system. It is one of the earliest veins to form in the vertebrate embryo, and plays a crucial role in the development of the mature venous system.

Development[edit | edit source]

The Cardinal Vein develops in the early stages of embryogenesis. It forms from the vasculogenesis of the mesoderm, the middle layer of the three primary germ layers in the very early embryo. The Cardinal Vein is initially paired, with a right and left vein forming on either side of the developing spinal cord.

Function[edit | edit source]

The Cardinal Vein is responsible for draining the blood from the body of the embryo back to the heart. It is a precursor to the systemic venous system, which in adults includes the superior vena cava, inferior vena cava, and the azygos vein.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Understanding the development and function of the Cardinal Vein is essential for medical professionals, particularly those specializing in cardiology and vascular surgery. Abnormalities in the development of the Cardinal Vein can lead to various congenital heart defects.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]



Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD