Question

What is the function of the hilus? Is the word "hilum" the plural form of "hilus"?

Answer 1

Hilus:

1. A hilus is a groove or cleft in an organ where blood vessels and nerves enter or exit through it.
2. “Hilus” was used informally and now the word “hilum” is used synonymously.
3. “Hila” is the plural form of “hilum”.

The function of Hilus:

1. Hilus help in the transportation of materials throughout the body.
2. Hilum in the ovary helps in generating androgens and functions in a similar way as that of the interstitial cell.
3. In the kidneys, the renal arteries enter through the hilum and circulate oxygenated blood while the renal vein and uterus exit the kidneys through it.