Morphology and Arterial Vasculature of Donkey (Equus asinus L.) Adrenal Gland

Authors: EMİNE KARAKURUM, ÖZCAN ÖZGEL, NEJDET DURSUN

Abstract: In this study, the shape, localization, and arterial vascularization of the gl. adrenalis were examined in 6 donkeys. It was observed that the internal side of the gl. adrenalis sinistra was located against the aorta abdominalis and the caudal aspect of the gland was in the ventral aspect of the a. renalis sinistra. The length of the left adrenal gland was approximately 41.49-47.44 mm, while its width was about 21.70-26.24 mm, and the thickness was nearly 4.65-7.56 mm. The shape of the left adrenal gland was oval or nearly circular. The gl. adrenalis sinistra was vascularized by the rr. adrenalis caudales and a. adrenalis media that were separated from the ventral side of the aorta abdominalis. The latter took part in the vascularization of both materials. The vena cava caudalis was seen in the ventral side of the gl. adrenalis dextra, and the cranial border of the gland was seen in contact with the renal impression of the liver. The right a. renalis was observed on the caudal border of the gland. The length of the right adrenal gland was approximately 43.13-56.49 mm, while the width was about 14.40-30.27 mm, and the thickness was nearly 4.74-7.68 mm. The general shape of the right adrenal gland was ranging from oval to nearly circular in outlines; however, a typical bean shape was seen only in one specimen and an elliptical gland was seen in another specimen. The gl. adrenalis sinistra was vascularized by the rr. adrenales caudales and a. adrenalis media, the latter was originated from the ventral aspect of the aorta abdominalis to participate partly in the vascularization of this gland in a specimen.

Keywords: Donkey, adrenal gland, morphology, vasculature

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