Abstract:

The human intervertebral disc (IVD) is a very complex joint structure that can be made up of highly organized matrix laid down by relatively few cells in a specific manner. Macroscopically it can be separated in to three distinct components. The central gelatinous nucleus pulposus is contained within the more collagenous anulus fibrosus laterally and the cartilage end plates inferiorly and superiorly. The anulus consists of concentric rings or lamellae, with fibers in the outer lamellae continuing into the longitudinal ligaments and vertebral bodies. This arrangement allows the discs to facilitate movement and flexibility within what would be an otherwise rigid spine. With increasing age, the disc-particularly the nucleus-becomes less gelatinous and more fibrous, and cracks and fissures eventually form. More blood vessels begin to grow into the disc from the outer areas of the annulus. There is an increase in cell proliferation and formation of cell clusters as well as an increase in cell death. In the present study the microscopic anatomy of intervertebral disc of full term human foetus was examined the alignment of collagen Fibers & distribution of chondrocytes in the annulus is observed with the help of Haematoxylin & Eosin stain and Vangieson’s stain. The Haematoxylin & Eosin study reveals that the collagen fibers are arranged circularly & the nucleus pulposus is of mucoid material, which is made up of degenerated notochordal cells.

Keywords: Inter vertebral disc, Anulus fibrosus, Nucleus pulposus, Histology.

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