The ovary consists of the following parts in total:

Appeared in: IGNOU PB Bsc Entrance-2023

Explanation

The substance of the ovary is fundamentally divided into two distinct regions: an outer cortex and an inner medulla.
The cortex is the functional powerhouse, containing the ovarian follicles where eggs (ova) develop.
The medulla serves as the central support core, housing the blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic channels that supply the organ.
This division into cortex and medulla represents the primary structural and functional organization of the ovarian parenchyma.

Option B: This is incomplete. The medulla is only the central part of the ovary and does not include the functionally critical outer cortex where follicles develop.
Option C: This is incomplete. The cortex is the outer layer of the ovary but does not include the central medulla which contains the vital blood supply and nerves.
Option D: While the hilum is an anatomical region of the ovary, it is primarily a gateway for vessels and nerves, not a primary division of the ovarian tissue itself. The main substance (parenchyma) is divided into cortex and medulla.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomy of the Ovary as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the parts of the ovary is crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), where numerous small follicles are seen in the cortex.
Ovarian tumors can be classified based on their cell of origin, which relates to the different parts of the ovary (e.g., epithelial tumors from the surface, germ cell tumors from the cortex).
Ovarian torsion, a medical emergency, involves the twisting of the ovary around its ligamentous attachments, compromising the blood supply that enters through the hilum.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question, which is 'ovary' and 'parts'.
Recall the basic anatomical structure of the ovary from your studies.
The ovary is primarily divided into a functional outer layer and a supportive inner core.
Evaluate the options. 'Cortex' and 'Medulla' are the names for these two primary divisions.
Consider the completeness of each option. Options B and C are incomplete. Option D includes the 'hilum'.
Differentiate between the primary parenchymal parts (cortex and medulla) and anatomical landmarks (hilum). The hilum is a region of entry/exit, not a main tissue component like the cortex and medulla. Therefore, 'Cortex and medulla' is the best description of the ovary's substance.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Histology Inderbir 11e pp. 115-117, 113-115

E6 Physiology Essentials Sembulingam 10e Part 2 p. 117-119

Practise the full IGNOU PB Bsc Entrance-2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.