| primitive streak | An ectodermal ridge in the midline at the caudal end of the embryonic disk from which arises the intraembryonic mesoderm; achieved by inward and then lateral migration of cells; in human embryos, it appears on day 15 and gives a cephalocaudal axis to the developing embryo. Synonym: germinal streak. (05 Mar 2000) |
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| neuroectodermal tumour, primitive | A malignant brain tumour sharing common features and biologic properties with medulloblastoma. Some pathologists and clinicians use the terms interchangeably: they both can disseminate throughout the nervous system and, in some cases, systemically. most lesions arise from the posterior fossa in children under five years of age. The tumour often produces hydrocephalus and symptoms of increased intracranial pressure. Papilledema is often present. (12 Dec 1998) |