VAN 211: Veterinary Histology and Embryology (2+2)

SPLEEN

• The spleen is a mesodermal derivative. It is developed in the dorsal mesogastrium.
• At first an accumulation of mesenchymal cells is seen just beneath the surface of the peritoneal epithelium. This mass increases in size and projects above the omental surface as several hillocks which soon merge.
• The part of the dorsal mesogastrium which is attached to the spleen becomes reduced to narrow band called the gastrosplenic omentum. The mesenchyme is soon vascularised and the capsule, trabeculae and pulp cords are differentiated.