What is the Difference Between Corpus Cavernosum and Corpus Spongiosum?

The key difference between the corpus cavernosum and the corpus spongiosum lies in their anatomical structure and role in the development of an erection. Both structures are found within the penis and contain erectile tissue, but they have distinct functions:

Corpus Cavernosum:

• Comprises the erectile tissue of the penis, along with the corpus spongiosum.
• Consists of two cylinders that fill with blood to create an erection.
• Made mostly of smooth muscle and contains intracavernosal struts (pillars) that help keep the erectile tissue in place.
• When an erection occurs, the space within the corpus cavernosum fills with blood and becomes rigid.

Corpus Spongiosum:

• Also known as the corpus cavernosum urethrae.
• Surrounds the urethra, which is the tube that transports either urine or semen.
• Contains smooth muscles that aid ejaculation.
• The tunica albuginea of the corpus spongiosum is thinner and contains smooth muscles.
• During erection, blood flows through the corpus spongiosum and glans, increasing in volume.

In summary, the corpus cavernosum and corpus spongiosum are both erectile tissues within the penis, but they serve different functions. The corpus cavernosum is responsible for creating an erection by filling with blood and becoming rigid, while the corpus spongiosum surrounds the urethra and plays a role in ejaculation, with its smooth muscles aiding the process.

Comparative Table: Corpus Cavernosum vs Corpus Spongiosum

Here is a table comparing the differences between the corpus cavernosum and corpus spongiosum:

Both the corpus cavernosum and corpus spongiosum are erectile tissues found within the penis, and they are made up of smooth muscle cells. However, the corpus cavernosum is responsible for proper erection by filling up with blood, while the corpus spongiosum helps maintain the urethra as a viable opened channel for ejaculation. Additionally, the corpus cavernosum has a thicker tunica albuginea and contains venous sinuses, while the corpus spongiosum has a thinner tunica albuginea and contains smooth muscles that aid in erection.