Arterne

Arterne is a term used in some Nordic languages to refer to arteries, the blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart. In English, the general term is arteries; in Latin and other languages the corresponding word is arteriæ or arterier, depending on locale. In medical texts written in Danish or Norwegian, arterne can appear as the definite plural form of artery.

Anatomically, arteries are part of the circulatory system and, with veins and capillaries, form a closed network that transports blood throughout the body. Arteries have a multilayer wall structure consisting of the tunica intima (inner lining), tunica media (muscular and elastic middle layer), and tunica externa (adventitia). The tunica media contains smooth muscle and elastic fibers, enabling arteries to withstand high pressures and to constrict or dilate to adjust blood flow.

Artery classification reflects their function and composition. Elastic arteries, such as the aorta and major branches, have high elastin content to absorb the heartbeat’s pressure waves. Muscular arteries contain more smooth muscle and regulate distribution to specific organs. Smaller arteries transition into arterioles, which extend into capillary networks where exchange with tissues occurs.

Functionally, arteries deliver oxygenated blood (with the notable exception of the pulmonary arteries, which carry blood to the lungs for oxygenation) and help maintain systemic blood pressure. They also act as pressure reservoirs, smoothing blood flow between heartbeats.

Clinical relevance includes atherosclerosis, which narrows and stiffens arterial walls, and aneurysm formation. Other conditions involve peripheral arterial disease and carotid artery disease, with diagnostics such as Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, and MR angiography.

Language note: arterne denotes the definite plural form in some Nordic languages for arteries, reflecting how medical terms adapt across languages. See also circulatory system and arterial anatomy.