THE PECTINATE LINE: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF ITS ANATOMICAL, PHYSIOLOGICAL, AND CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The pectinate line (or dentate line) is a significant anatomical landmark in the anal canal that demarcates two distinct regions: the upper part derived from endoderm and the lower part derived from ectoderm. This line holds immense importance in anatomy, physiology, and clinical practice, influencing vascular, neural, and lymphatic supply and playing a pivotal role in conditions like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and carcinomas. This paper explores the anatomical, physiological, and clinical implications of the pectinate line with references to contemporary scientific literature.