MATURATION. 



31 



(Fig. 19) which then becomes gradually transformed into the corpus luteum. 

 Large cells containing fat droplets and yellow pigment (lutein granules) appear 

 around the blood clot and then increase in number until they replace the clot 

 (Figs. 20 and 21). These cells, which are called lutein cells, are considered by 

 some as derivatives of the connective-tissue cells of the theca folliculi and by 

 others as derivatives of the stratum granulosum of the follicle. The latter 

 view seems the more probable. Ingrowth of strands of connective tissue fol- 



Point of rupture 



Connective tissue 



Connective tissue 

 from theca 



Theca folliculi 



Remnant of corpus 

 hsemorrhagicum 



Blood vessels 

 of theca 



FIG. 21. From section of human ovary, showing later stage of corpus luteum than Fig. 20. 



Kollmann's Atlas. 



lows the development of the lutein cells and gradually this connective tissue 

 replaces the mass of lutein cells which undergo degeneration and absorption. 

 The corpus luteum thus gives way to dense connective tissue, the corpus albicans. 

 This body persists for a long period, gradually retracting to an almost micro- 

 scopic scar. 



The rapidity with which the changes, both constructive and destructive, 

 take place in the corpus luteum, appears to be largely dependent upon whether 

 the egg which escaped from the follicle is or is not fertilized. If ovulation is 



