Bone Bone is a highly specialised tissue ( E-Fig. 22.1 H ), composed of a particular type of collagen embedded in a ground substance matrix, osteoid . Osteoid becomes mineralised by the deposition of calcium salts in the form of…
Introduction The skin is commonly affected by a wide range of pathologies. Some of these are cutaneous manifestations of systemic disease processes whilst others are primary disorders of the skin. Common systemic viral illnesses such as measles and chickenpox are…
Pituitary gland disorders Structural defects of the pituitary gland are few, although functional abnormalities are potentially numerous, leading to under- or overproduction of one or more of the many hormones produced by the pituitary gland and its target endocrine glands.…
Introduction The male reproductive system includes the testes with their related duct systems, the prostate and the penis. These organs are responsible for the production, storage and periodic emission of the male gametes, spermatozoa, as well as the production of…
Introduction The female breast ( E-Fig. 18.1 H ) is dependent for its normal activity on oestrogen and progestogens and thus exhibits considerable structural and functional variation throughout life. Apart from the overt changes occurring during puberty, pregnancy, lactation (…
Introduction The female reproductive tract comprises the vulva, vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. As in other systems, a wide range of pathological conditions may occur in these organs. Malignant tumours and their precursor conditions are of major pathological importance.…
Functions of the lymphoreticular system The lymphoreticular system is composed of various organs and tissues which facilitate the interaction of lymphocytes with cells of monocyte–macrophage lineage in the generation of immune responses. The main organs and tissues of the system…
Introduction The urinary tract comprises the kidneys, pelvicalyceal systems, ureters, bladder and urethra. The kidney is responsible for excretion of the waste products of metabolism, the waste products being excreted in the form of an aqueous solution called urine .…
Disorders of the liver The liver is affected by a wide range of disorders, the most important of which are listed below. The liver performs many different metabolic functions and liver disease produces diverse clinical symptoms and signs. The pathophysiology…
Introduction The alimentary system includes the mouth and its associated salivary glands, the oesophagus, stomach, small and large bowels, appendix and anus. The function of the alimentary tract is the ingestion, digestion and absorption of nutrients, along with the storage…