Rete mirabile

Latin: rete – network
German: Rete mirabile

1 Definition

A rete mirabile is a division of an arteria in a complex network of small arteries. At the end this network squeezes into an artery again. A blood flow in the opposite direction is possible.

2 Incidence

• In all vertebrates in their kidneys (glomeruli)
• In fishes in the air bladder
• In ruminant animal in the arteria ophthalmica externa
• In cats in the arteria maxillaries

3 Venous networks

Eventhough the term rete mirabile is mainly used for the arterial system, it is used for some venous ones as well. The most popular one in humans is the portal circulation of pituitary glands and liver.