What is Endo and Ectocervix?
The upper cervix (endocervix) is lined by a simple columnar epithelium that contains mucous-secreting cells. In contrast, the lower cervix (ectocervix) is lined by a stratified squamous epithelium. The transition point between these two epithelia is known as the external os.
What is the function of the Ectocervix?
The cervical os allows menstrual blood to flow out from the vagina during menstruation. The lowest part, which can be seen from inside the vagina during a gynecological exam, is called the ectocervix. The center of the ectocervix can open, creating a passage between the uterus and vagina.
What cells make up the Ectocervix?
These are the 2 main types of cells in the cervix:
- Glandular cells line the endocervical canal. They are tall and shaped like columns and are called columnar cells.
- Squamous cells line the ectocervix and vagina. They are flat and thin like the scales on a fish.
What type of epithelium covers the Ectocervix?
Squamous epithelium. Usually, most of the ectocervix and the entire length of the vagina is lined with squamous epithelium, which is uniform, stratified, and non-keratinizing.
What does Koilocytosis mean?
Koilocytosis describes the culmination of specific cellular events caused by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV).[3] Koilocytes are thus indicative of and specific for HPV infection.[4] HPV induces the transformation of cells and is associated with malignant entities, such as certain carcinomas of the cervix.
Where is the Parametrium located?
The fat and connective tissue that surrounds the uterus. The parametrium helps connect the uterus to other tissues in the pelvis.
Does cervix open during period?
Your cervix is typically open during menstruation, which allows menstrual blood and uterine tissue to leave your body. The cervix is usually lower in the body and therefore easier to feel while you’re menstruating.
What structure marks the transition of the Ectocervix to the endocervical canal?
the cervix forming a passageway between the external os and the internal os. The upper limit of the endocervical canal called the internal os or isthmus, marks the transition from the endocervix to the endometrium (uterine cavity) (fig. 1).
Which epithelium is present in fallopian tube?
The fallopian tube is lined with ciliated columnar epithelium.
Is Koilocytosis a precancer?
Koilocytosis in the cervix is a precursor for cervical cancer. The risk increases when more koilocytes resulting from certain strains of HPV are present. A diagnosis of koilocytosis after a Pap smear or cervical biopsy increases the need for frequent cancer screenings.
What is the ectocervix made of?
The ectocervix is the portion of the cervix that projects into the vagina. It is lined by stratified squamous non-keratinized epithelium. The opening in the ectocervix, the external os, marks the transition from the ectocervix to the endocervical canal.
What is the microanatomy of the ectocervix?
1.2 Microanatomy 1.2.1 Ectocervix Ectocervix or portio vaginalis cervix is covered with stratified squamous epithelium which is nonkeratinized. However, keratinization can occur after exposure to the environment as in cervical prolapse.
What is the difference between ectocervix and endocervical?
The endocervix has rich neural innervation, while it is very poor in ectocervix. Therefore, procedures like cervical biopsy, electrocoagulation, and cryotherapy are easily and well tolerated by most women without the need of local anesthesia.
Is ectocervix keratinized in cervix?
Ectocervix or portio vaginalis cervix is covered with stratified squamous epithelium which is nonkeratinized. However, keratinization can occur after exposure to the environment as in cervical prolapse. This is opaque, pale pink and has 15–20 layers of cells.