Morphometric parameters of head and neck great vessels’ main components in the embryonic and early fetal periods

Abstract

Relevance. The high prevalence of haemangiomas among children requires a detailed study of the pathology formation time. Great vessels are known to be laid, form and develop during the first trimester of pregnancy, including the head and neck area. Negative agents of various types can affect the developing embryo through a pregnant woman's body.Purpose. Our research aimed to study and evaluate head and neck main vessels' morphometric parameters during embryonic development Material and methods. The study assessed the head and neck vessels of 25 human embryos and fetuses at the 3rd to the 12th week, obtained during a routine autopsy of abortive material within 48 hours after death. Histology samples included 110 fragments. Morphometry measured the obtained histology sample vascular wall thickness.Results. Formation of the neurovascular bundle of the neck, which includes the carotid arteries, internal jugular vein and vagus nerve, appeared to begin at week 3-4 of intrauterine life. The morphometric investigation established that the blood vessel wall has a fuzzy differentiated structure at 3-4 weeks of pregnancy. However, vascular wall differentiation is complete, and vessels appear in the adventitia by the 11-12th week.Conclusion. The period from 6 to 7 weeks is critical for the arterial inner lining, and the period from 8 to 9 weeks is for veins. Gestational age between 4 and 7 weeks may be crucial for media and adventitia.