Heterogeneity of the histological features along the course of the facial vein of the desert camel (Camelus dromedarius): relevance to brain cooling.

Abstract

Sections from different parts along the facial vein of the camel (Camelus dromedarius) were examined by light microscopy. The results demonstrated heterogeneity among the various segments. Particular attention was paid to a specific area in the buccal region which was previously shown by physiological experiments to have a temperature-dependent myogenic tone. The morphology of that area showed highly thickened media with prominent bands of circularly disposed smooth muscles infiltrating both the intima and the adventitia. The morphology described in this study correlates well with the function and gives further credence to the proposed role of the facial vein in cranial thermoregulation particularly under heat stress.