Epiphyseal plate
Epiphyseal Plate
The Epiphyseal Plate (pronounced: eh-pi-FIZZ-ee-ul), also known as the growth plate or physeal plate, is a hyaline cartilage plate in the metaphysis at each end of a long bone. The plate is found in children and adolescents; in adults, who have stopped growing, the plate is replaced by an Epiphyseal Line.
Etymology
The term "Epiphyseal Plate" comes from the Greek words 'epi' meaning 'upon', 'physis' meaning 'nature', and 'plate' from the Old French 'plate' meaning 'flat piece'. The term refers to the flat nature of the structure and its location on the bone.
Function
The primary function of the Epiphyseal Plate is to facilitate bone growth. During childhood and adolescence, new cells are produced in the plate which then calcify and harden to become part of the main bone structure. This process, known as Endochondral Ossification, allows for the lengthening of bones until the individual reaches their adult height.
Related Terms
- Metaphysis: The part of a long bone between the epiphysis and the diaphysis.
- Diaphysis: The shaft or central part of a long bone.
- Epiphysis: The end part of a long bone, initially growing separately from the shaft.
- Hyaline Cartilage: The most widespread type of cartilage, it is found on many joint surfaces. It is pearly bluish in color with firm consistency and has a considerable amount of collagen.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epiphyseal plate
- Wikipedia's article - Epiphyseal plate
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