Lamella (surface anatomy): Difference between revisions

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'''Lamella (surface anatomy)''' refers to a thin layer, membrane, or plate of tissue in the [[human body]], particularly in relation to [[surface anatomy]]. This term is often used in various contexts within [[biology]] and [[medicine]], describing structures that are layered or stratified in nature. In surface anatomy, lamellae can be found in numerous locations and serve various functions, from providing support and protection to facilitating the diffusion of gases or fluids.
== Lamella (Surface Anatomy) ==


==Structure==
[[File:Day_18_Sp3_007_3000x.tif|thumb|right|Micrograph of lamellae in bone tissue.]]
Lamellae in surface anatomy are typically composed of [[connective tissue]], including [[collagen]] and [[elastin]] fibers, which contribute to their strength and elasticity. The specific structure of a lamella varies depending on its location and function within the body. For example, the [[bone]] lamellae, found in the [[compact bone]], are organized into concentric rings around central canals, forming the basic unit known as the [[osteons]] or Haversian systems. In contrast, the lamellae in the [[cornea]] are parallel collagen fibrils that contribute to the cornea's transparency and refractive power.


==Function==
In [[surface anatomy]], a '''lamella''' refers to a thin layer, membrane, or plate of tissue. The term is often used in the context of [[bone]] and [[cartilage]] structures, where lamellae are critical components of the [[osteon]] or [[Haversian system]].
The primary function of lamellae varies by their anatomical location:
- In bones, lamellae help to withstand mechanical stress and provide structural support.
- In the cornea, they allow light to pass through and focus on the [[retina]], enabling vision.
- In the [[gills]] of fish, lamellae facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, essential for respiration.


==Clinical Significance==
== Structure ==
Alterations or damage to lamellar structures can lead to various medical conditions. For example, lamellar ichthyosis is a rare genetic skin disorder characterized by the formation of dark, scaly skin caused by abnormalities in the skin's lamellar structure. In orthopedics, improper alignment or damage to the bone lamellae can affect bone strength and lead to fractures or other skeletal disorders.


==See Also==
Lamellae are concentric rings of [[calcified]] matrix found in compact bone. They are organized around a central [[Haversian canal]], which contains the bone's blood supply. Each lamella is composed of [[collagen]] fibers that run in parallel within a single lamella but in different directions in adjacent lamellae, providing strength and resilience to the bone.
* [[Compact bone]]
 
* [[Cornea]]
== Function ==
* [[Connective tissue]]
 
The primary function of lamellae is to provide structural support and strength to bones. The arrangement of collagen fibers in alternating directions helps bones resist torsion and bending forces. This structural organization is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the [[skeletal system]].
 
== Types of Lamellae ==
 
There are several types of lamellae found in bone tissue:
 
* '''Concentric lamellae''': These are the rings of bone matrix that surround the Haversian canal in an osteon.
* '''Interstitial lamellae''': These are remnants of old osteons that have been partially resorbed during bone remodeling.
* '''Circumferential lamellae''': These are layers of bone matrix that extend around the entire circumference of the bone, just beneath the periosteum and endosteum.
 
== Related Structures ==
 
* [[Osteocyte]]: A bone cell that resides in small cavities called lacunae, which are located between lamellae.
* [[Canaliculi]]: Tiny channels that connect lacunae and allow for communication and nutrient exchange between osteocytes.
* [[Volkmann's canals]]: Channels that run perpendicular to the Haversian canals, connecting them to the periosteum and the bone's blood supply.
 
== Related Pages ==
 
* [[Bone]]
* [[Cartilage]]
* [[Osteon]]
* [[Osteon]]
* [[Haversian system]]
* [[Collagen]]
{{Anatomy}}


[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Surface anatomy]]
[[Category:Skeletal system]]
 
{{anatomy-stub}}

Latest revision as of 16:30, 16 February 2025

Lamella (Surface Anatomy)[edit]

Micrograph of lamellae in bone tissue.

In surface anatomy, a lamella refers to a thin layer, membrane, or plate of tissue. The term is often used in the context of bone and cartilage structures, where lamellae are critical components of the osteon or Haversian system.

Structure[edit]

Lamellae are concentric rings of calcified matrix found in compact bone. They are organized around a central Haversian canal, which contains the bone's blood supply. Each lamella is composed of collagen fibers that run in parallel within a single lamella but in different directions in adjacent lamellae, providing strength and resilience to the bone.

Function[edit]

The primary function of lamellae is to provide structural support and strength to bones. The arrangement of collagen fibers in alternating directions helps bones resist torsion and bending forces. This structural organization is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the skeletal system.

Types of Lamellae[edit]

There are several types of lamellae found in bone tissue:

  • Concentric lamellae: These are the rings of bone matrix that surround the Haversian canal in an osteon.
  • Interstitial lamellae: These are remnants of old osteons that have been partially resorbed during bone remodeling.
  • Circumferential lamellae: These are layers of bone matrix that extend around the entire circumference of the bone, just beneath the periosteum and endosteum.

Related Structures[edit]

  • Osteocyte: A bone cell that resides in small cavities called lacunae, which are located between lamellae.
  • Canaliculi: Tiny channels that connect lacunae and allow for communication and nutrient exchange between osteocytes.
  • Volkmann's canals: Channels that run perpendicular to the Haversian canals, connecting them to the periosteum and the bone's blood supply.

Related Pages[edit]