The histological structure and histochemical contents of the livers of fifteen mature male and female ostrich were investigated. The liver was covered by a thick CT capsule, formed of regularly arranged collagen fibers together with some reticular fibers. The hepatocytes were arranged as irregular anastomosing cords of two cells thick. The cords were separated from each others by blood sinusoids. The hepatocytes were large polygonal cells with large euchromatic nuclei .One or two nucleoli could be demonstrated. The cytoplasm was foamy in appearance. The portal triads containing branches of hepatic artery, portal vein, bile duct and lymph vessel, the triads were observed but were not prominent landmarks. The liver interstitium was consisted of reticular fibers and fine collagen fibers. The collagen fibers were the main supporting elements in the portal triads. |
