10 



INTERNAL SECRETIONS OF THE OVARY 



In many species, notably polyoestrous ones, the corpus luteum 

 survives as a histologically intact body long after it must have 

 ceased to function; in the unmated mouse three, four or even 

 five sets of corpora lutea, representing successive ovulations, 

 may be present in the ovary at one time. The name corpus 

 luteum spurium has been given to these corpora lutea of the 

 infertile cycle, but the distinction seems unnecessary since the 

 difference between them and the corpora lutea of true pregnancy 



M 



n.c.J. 



n.c.l. 





Fig. 5. — Human Ovary. 

 n.c.l. new corpus luteum; o.c.a. old corpus albicans (after Shaw). 



is merely one of degree. In Dasy virus such a difference has 

 not appeared, the duration of life and histological appearance 

 of the corpora lutea being uninfluenced by the fate of the ova. 

 The ferret appears to be similar in this respect. 



The corpora lutea atretica, which are sometimes formed with- 

 out the intermediate stage of ovulation by atretic follicles or by 

 follicles in which ovulation is for some reason inhibited, probably 

 do not function; here again, however, the difference from 

 normal luteal tissue appears to be only one of degree. Corpora 

 lutea capable of performing all their known functions can be 

 produced experimentally without discharge of the ovum. 



