Epiphysis
Epiphysis
Epiphysis (pronounced: /ɛˈpɪfɪsɪs/) is a term used in anatomy to describe the end part of a long bone, which originally grows separately from the main bone.
Etymology
The term "Epiphysis" is derived from the Greek word 'epiphysis' (ἐπίφυσις), which means 'to grow upon'. It was first used in the English language in the 17th century.
Description
An epiphysis is made of spongy bone also known as cancellous bone, which is covered by a thin layer of compact bone. It is found at the joints and is the site where bone growth occurs in children and adolescents, a process known as ossification. The epiphysis is separated from the main bone (the diaphysis) by the epiphyseal plate or growth plate. Once a person reaches adulthood, the epiphyseal plate closes and the epiphysis and diaphysis fuse together.
Related Terms
- Diaphysis: The shaft or central part of a long bone.
- Metaphysis: The narrow portion of a long bone between the epiphysis and the diaphysis.
- Epiphyseal plate: A hyaline cartilage plate in the metaphysis at each end of a long bone.
- Ossification: The process of bone formation, in which connective tissues, such as cartilage are turned into bone or bone-like tissue.
- Spongy bone: Also known as cancellous bone, it is one of the two types of tissue that form bones.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epiphysis
- Wikipedia's article - Epiphysis
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