Erectile Tissue
Erectile or cavernous tissue is a vascular specialization consisting of many close-packed, endothelium-lined spaces. The spaces are usually closed, but they are directly fed by arterioles and rapidly engorge under appropriate nervous stimulation.
Erectile tissue provides a large part of the structure of the penis (p. 184) and the clitoris. In modified form it is also found in the teat wall, the nasal mucosa, the vomeronasal organ, and a few other sites. A simultaneous response of the genital and nasal erectile tissue is common and may occur because perception of odors plays a significant part in the sexual behavior of many animals.
FIG. 7.31 Precapillary arteriovenous anastomosis. 1, Artery; 2, vein; 3, arteriovenous anastomosis; 4, capillary plexus.
"Blood cushions" formed by a concentration of veins are associated with the gastrointestinal tract. One of veterinary interest is provided by the ileal papilla of the horse (Chapter 21), which has a considerable capacity for engorgement. In the human anal mucosa pads formed by the underlying veins are believed to contribute to closure of the orifice.
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