Which artery type is typically classified as a medium muscular artery?

Which artery type is typically classified as a medium muscular artery?

• A. Medium muscular arteries
• B. Elastic arteries
• C. Small arteries
• D. Veins

Answer: (A)

Arteries are categorized by what makes up their wall, especially the tunica media. Medium muscular arteries are the vessels that sit between the large elastic arteries and the small resistance arteries. They have a relatively thick tunica media composed predominantly of smooth muscle, with fewer elastic fibers than elastic arteries. This structure lets them actively constrict or dilate to control blood flow and vascular resistance to different organs. Examples of these medium-sized muscular arteries include the brachial and femoral arteries, which distribute blood farther from the heart and adjust flow as needed. In contrast, elastic arteries like the aorta are large and rich in elastic lamellae to act as pressure reservoirs, while small arteries and arterioles have thinner walls and serve mainly as resistance vessels. Veins are not arteries.

Arteries are categorized by what makes up their wall, especially the tunica media. Medium muscular arteries are the vessels that sit between the large elastic arteries and the small resistance arteries. They have a relatively thick tunica media composed predominantly of smooth muscle, with fewer elastic fibers than elastic arteries. This structure lets them actively constrict or dilate to control blood flow and vascular resistance to different organs.

Examples of these medium-sized muscular arteries include the brachial and femoral arteries, which distribute blood farther from the heart and adjust flow as needed. In contrast, elastic arteries like the aorta are large and rich in elastic lamellae to act as pressure reservoirs, while small arteries and arterioles have thinner walls and serve mainly as resistance vessels. Veins are not arteries.