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Ovarian Follicle

Definition

Ovarian Follicle: An OOCYTE-containing structure in the cortex of the OVARY. The oocyte is enclosed by a layer of GRANULOSA CELLS providing a nourishing microenvironment (FOLLICULAR FLUID). The number and size of follicles vary depending on the age and reproductive state of the female. The growing follicles are divided into five stages: primary, secondary, tertiary, Graafian, and atretic. Follicular growth and steroidogenesis depend on the presence of GONADOTROPINS.

Annotations

/cytol: consider also THECA CELLS; GRANULOSA CELLS; for follicular development use /physiol, not /growth

Other Entries

Graafian Follicle
Atretic Follicle
Ovarian Follicles
Atretic Follicles
Follicle, Atretic
Follicle, Graafian
Follicle, Ovarian
Follicles, Atretic
Follicles, Graafian
Follicles, Ovarian
Graafian Follicles

Allowable Qualifiers

abnormalities anatomy & histology blood supply chemistry cytology drug effects embryology enzymology growth & development immunology injuries innervation metabolism microbiology parasitology pathology physiology physiopathology radiation effects radiography radionuclide imaging secretion surgery transplantation ultrasonography ultrastructure virology

Categories

Entry Date

01-01-1999