Rete testis

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Rete testis
Rete testis.jpg
Position of the rete testis within the testicle
Illu testis schematic.jpg
Details
Latin Rete testis
Precursor Wolffian duct
Identifiers
MeSH A05.360.444.849.600
TA Lua error in Module:Wikidata at line 744: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value).
TH {{#property:P1694}}
TE {{#property:P1693}}
FMA {{#property:P1402}}
Anatomical terminology
[[[d:Lua error in Module:Wikidata at line 863: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value).|edit on Wikidata]]]

The rete testis (/ˈriti ˈtɛstɪs/)[1] is an anastomosing network of delicate tubules located in the hilum of the testicle (mediastinum testis) that carries sperm from the seminiferous tubules to the efferent ducts. It is the counterpart of the rete ovarii in females.[2] Its function is to provide a site for fluid reabsorption.

Structure

Micrograph of the rete testis. H&E stain.

The rete testis is the network of interconnecting tubules where the straight seminiferous tubules (the terminal part of the seminiferous tubules) empty. It is located within a highly vascular connective tissue in the mediastinum testis.[3] The epithelial cells form a single layer that lines the inner surface of the tubules. These cells are cuboidal, with microvilli and a single cilium on their surface.[4]

Development

In the development of the urinary and reproductive organs, the testis is developed in much the same way as the ovary, originating from mesothelium as well as mesonephros. Like the ovary, in its earliest stages it consists of a central mass covered by a surface epithelium. In the central mass, a series of cords appear. These cords run together toward the future hilum and form a network that ultimately becomes the rete testis.

Function

It is in the rete testis that the sperm become concentrated and other fluids are reabsorbed. If this does not occur, the sperm that enter the epididymis will not be concentrated, resulting in possible infertility.[citation needed]

Clinical significance

Rete tubular ectasia is a disorder of the rete testis characterized by multiple benign cysts.

Additional images

References

  1. US dict: rē'·tē tĕs'·tĭs
  2. Definition: Rete ovarii from Online Medical Dictionary
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External links


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