What is the difference between secondary follicles and tertiary follicles?
Secondary follicles:
The main follicle develops into a secondary follicle as it is surrounded by multiple layers of granulosa cells and a theca layer develops outside the basal lamina.
Tertiary follicles:
The creation of an antrum, a fluid-filled chamber, distinguishes the tertiary follicle.
Difference between secondary follicles and tertiary follicles:
Secondary follicles | Tertiary follicles |
1. The secondary follicle grows from the primary follicle and has numerous layers of granulosa cells. | 1. The secondary follicle gives rise to the tertiary follicle, which has many layers of granulosa cells and an antrum. |
2. Secondary follicles lack a fluid-filled chamber known as the antrum. | 2. Tertiary follicles have a fluid-filled chamber known as the antrum. |
3. A preantral follicle is a secondary follicle. | 3. The tertiary follicle is an antral follicle |
4. Primary follicles are smaller than secondary follicles. | 4. Secondary follicles are smaller than tertiary follicles. |
5. Granulosa and theca cells have a greater mitotic rate. | 5. In tertiary follicles, the mitotic rate of granulosa and theca cells begins to fall. |