Immunohistochemical study of the corpora cavernosa of the human clitoris

The microarchitecture of the corpora cavernosa of the human clitoris was investigated by immunohistochemistry. The distribution pattern of the nerve network was demonstrated by S-100 and neuron specific enolase immunoreactivity. Vascular and nonvascular muscle cells were identified by desmin and/or...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of anatomy 1996-06, Vol.188 ( Pt 3) (Pt 3), p.513-520
Main Authors: Toesca, A, Stolfi, V M, Cocchia, D
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Clitoris - anatomy & histology
Clitoris - chemistry
Clitoris - innervation
Desmin - analysis
Female
Humans
Immunohistochemistry
Middle Aged
Nerve Fibers - chemistry
Nerve Fibers - ultrastructure
Phosphopyruvate Hydratase - analysis
S100 Proteins - analysis
Vimentin - analysis
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Summary:The microarchitecture of the corpora cavernosa of the human clitoris was investigated by immunohistochemistry. The distribution pattern of the nerve network was demonstrated by S-100 and neuron specific enolase immunoreactivity. Vascular and nonvascular muscle cells were identified by desmin and/or vimentin expression, and fibroblasts and endothelial cells by vimentin immunoreactivity. The findings show that tissue organisation in the corpora cavernosa of the clitoris is essentially similar to that of the penis except for the absence of the subalbugineal layer interposed between the tunica albuginea and erectile tissue. This has functional implications, suggesting that the clitoral erection cycle differs from that of the penis.
ISSN:0021-8782
1469-7580