Embryology

A daunting topic to most students and doctors, this section aims to simplify the process of a foetus developing from an embryo in the womb. This information can then be directly applied to understand pathology and guide treatment.
Click a title to view the article on the topic and its associated quiz!
 

1. The Basics of Embryology

  • Understand the stages of development of the human embryo
  • Understand the progression through weeks and how each of the germ layers develops during this time
  • Be aware of the germ layers and how these correspond to full-term organs and their development

2. Development of the Gastrointestinal Tract

  • Be aware of the structure of the gastrointestinal tract
  • Understand the foregut, midgut, hindgut classifications and their boundaries
  • Understand the basic anatomy of the gut, including the mesenteries and omenta
  • Understand the concept of peritoneal and retroperitoneal
  • Understand the embryological development of the gut and how it relates to its function

3. Development of the Reproductive Systems

  • Understand the progression of development of the reprductive tracts and gonads
  • Understand the hormonal control of these developmental mechanisms
  • Be aware of the gubernaculum, its function and descent and the potential complications related to this
  • Be aware of potential issues with the development of the genitalia and how these present in the newborn or adult

4. Development of the Urinary System

  • Coming soon!

5. Development of the Respiratory System

  • Be aware of a basic outline of the embryological development of the respiratory system and how this can lead to birth and further developmental defects
  • Understand the basic neonatal complications of embryological development

6. Development of the Head and Neck

  • Understand the individual components of the head and neck and how they evolve embyrologically and chronologically
  • Understand the nervous, muscular, cartilaginous and arterial developments of the pharyngeal arches
  • Understand why certain birth deformities e.g. cleft lip and palate may develop from an embryological point of view
  • Understand the development of the thyroid gland, tongue and pituitary gland and how knowing this information can aid in clinically distinguishing neck lumps

7. Development of the Nervous System

  • Coming soon!

8. Embryology of the Cardiovascular System (CVS)

  • Understand how the cardiovascular system develops in utero
Finished here? Check out our other subjects!
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The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is intended for medical education, specifically to biological/medical learning inclined individuals, and does not create any doctor-patient relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.

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