Histological differentiation of structural components in human foetal thymus at different gestational ages.

Dr. Indupuru Gowri; Dr. Razzak Shareef

Volume : VIII, Issue : VIII, August - 2018

Histological differentiation of structural components in human foetal thymus at different gestational ages.

Dr. Indupuru Gowri, Dr. Razzak Shareef

Abstract :

Aim & Objectives:Estimation of development and differentiation of various tissues and organs, helps in assessment of gestational age of the foetus.To study the histological differentiation of cellular components of human thymus at different gestational age. Methods: A total 40 human foetuses ranging between age 12–32 gestational weeks were included.Based on to the gestational age (weeks), all the collected foetuses were divided into five groups, i.e. 9–12 weeks (Group 1), 13–16 weeks (Group 2), 17–20 weeks (Group 3), 21–24 weeks (Group 4) and 25–40 weeks (Group 5). The appearance and histogenesis of the various cellular components were noted and analyzed Results:Appearance of cortex and medulla was started in the 14th week, differentiation of cortex and medulla was commenced at 14th week and was well distinct after a17th week of gestation. Lobulation of thymus was commenced 13th week, Hassall’s corpuscles were appeared in 16.5th week of gestation and was well distinguished between 18th to 23rd weeks of gestation. Discussion:The estimation of the time of appearance of the various cellular components of the developing thymus helps in estimation of gestation age of the foetus. Structural changes such as differentiation of cortex & medulla, lobulation, the appearance of Hassall’s corpuscles happened with inthe 17th week of gestation.