Vitelline vein

Vitelline Vein

The Vitelline Vein in a human embryo at four weeks.

The Vitelline Vein is an important structure in embryonic development, responsible for the venous drainage of the yolk sac. It plays a crucial role in the formation of the portal venous system and the inferior vena cava.

Structure

The Vitelline Vein is formed during the third week of embryonic development. It originates from the yolk sac and drains into the sinus venosus. The Vitelline Vein is paired initially, but later undergoes a series of transformations to form the unpaired veins of the adult.

Development

During the fourth week of embryonic development, the right Vitelline Vein starts to regress, while the left Vitelline Vein enlarges to form the portal vein. The proximal part of the right Vitelline Vein forms the superior mesenteric vein, while the distal part forms the inferior mesenteric vein.

Clinical significance

Anomalies in the development of the Vitelline Vein can lead to various congenital disorders, such as portal vein thrombosis, portal hypertension, and congenital hepatic fibrosis.

See also

• Yolk sac
• Portal vein
• Inferior vena cava
• Superior mesenteric vein
• Inferior mesenteric vein