Corpus luteum

Corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine structure in female mammals, which is involved in the production of relatively high levels of progesterone and moderate levels of estradiol and inhibin A. It is colored as a result of the accumulation of lipid (fat) yellow pigment.

Formation

The corpus luteum is formed after the ovulation process. Once the egg is released from the ovary, the follicle that it was released from transforms into the corpus luteum. This transformation is triggered by the surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) that occurs just before ovulation.

Function

The primary function of the corpus luteum is to produce hormones, particularly progesterone, which is necessary for maintaining the endometrium (the lining of the uterus). If pregnancy occurs, the corpus luteum continues to produce progesterone until the placenta is mature enough to take over this function. If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates into a corpus albicans, which is a mass of fibrous scar tissue.

Clinical significance

The corpus luteum plays a crucial role in pregnancy. If it does not produce sufficient progesterone, the endometrium will not be maintained, and the pregnancy will not be viable. This is known as a luteal phase defect. In addition, cysts can form in the corpus luteum, known as corpus luteum cysts. These can cause pain and other symptoms, and may need to be treated with medication or surgery.

See also

• Ovarian cycle
• Menstrual cycle
• Luteal phase
• Corpus luteum cyst

References

Corpus luteum Resources
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