craniopharyngeal canal


pi·tu·i·tar·y di·ver·tic·u·lum

a tubular outgrowth of ectoderm from the stomodeum of the embryo; it grows dorsad to the infundibular process of the diencephalon, around which it forms a cuplike mass, giving rise to the pars distalis and pars juxtaneuralis of the hypophysis. Synonym(s): adenohypophysial diverticulum, craniopharyngeal canal, hypophysial diverticulum, hypophysial pouch

craniopharyngeal canal

In the embryo, a temporary tubular space in the cartilage of the base of the sphenoid bone, enclosing the developing pituitary gland. See also: canal