咽頭の形態に関する発生学

抄録

The development of the pharynx was studied in human embryos and fetuses . Embryos and fetuses from 4.5mm crowm-rump length (CRL) to 40mm CRL were processed for microscopy. Their pharyngeal regions were examined mainly in sagittal sections . Fetuses from 32mm CRL to 250mm CRL were fixed and cut sagittally through the midline and their pharyngeal regions were examined macroscopically. Fetuses with severe malformations of the central nervous system (CNS) were also cut sagittally through the midline and examined.
We found that the early formation of the pharyngeal roof is influenced by the separation of the notochord and the formation of the skull base. In later stages of development, growth of the mandibular portion and extension of the vertebral column contribute to the formation of the pharyngeal lumen. Fetuses with severe malformation of the CNS such as hydrocephalus, anencephalus and craniorachischisis show significant deformity of the pharynx. Malformation of the CNS induces malformation of the skull base and cervical vertebral column, which influences the formation of the pharynx.