On the variability of form and vascularization of the cat carotid body.

The compact carotid body shows, according to the source of the animals, a variability with respect to location, shape and vascularization which is similar to that found in the human carotid body and that of the dog. Aside from the ovoid forms which had been assumed to be characteristic, carotid bodies were found which either lie flat on the stem vessel or embrace it. Vascular supply is achieved not only by the occipito-pharyngeal trunk but also by the external carotid, ascendent pharyngeal and occipital arteries via one to more than three side branches. The findings are also relevant for the physiological investigation since they reveal that the function of the carotid body does not closely depend on its marcro architecture.