Tunica Albuginea of Corpus Spongiosum Penis
Tunica albuginea corporis spongiosi penis
Read moreQuick Facts
The tunica albuginea of corpus spongiosum penis is the dense, white, fibroelastic sheath that encloses the corpus spongiosum of the penis (Dorland, 2011).
Structure and/or Key Feature(s)
Due to the smaller density of erectile tissue in the corpus spongiosum, the tunica albuginea is thinner in comparison to the thick tunica albuginea covering the corpus cavernosum.
Function
The elastic nature of the tunica albuginea allows blood to flow easily through the dorsal arteries of the penis to initiate an erection. The deep fascia of the penis, which is less elastic, puts pressure on the dorsal vein of the penis near the root to prevent blood from leaving the penis.
References
Dorland, W. (2011) Dorland's Illustrated Medical Dictionary. 32nd edn. Philadelphia, USA: Elsevier Saunders.
