BMS Cartilage

Study Notes

Cartilage is a firm, avascular, non-calcified connective tissue crucial for structural support in the body.
Plays a key role in the formation of the temporary skeleton during embryonic development and serves as a precursor to bone.
Found on the articular surfaces of free-moving joints, facilitating flexibility and smooth movement.

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in the head and neck is significant; impairments can lead to limited mouth opening and discomfort.
Nutritional support for cartilage is provided by surrounding connective tissue known as perichondrium, which acts as a fibrous sheath.

Composed of cells and a matrix; the matrix includes fibers, collagen, and intracellular substances.
Contains immature chondroblasts that produce the cartilage matrix and mature chondrocytes that maintain it.
Ground substance is a gel-like matrix rich in proteoglycan, chondronectin, and water, providing cartilage strength and hydration.
Perichondrium encapsulates cartilage, aiding in its structural integrity.

Three main types of cartilage: Hyaline, Fibrous, and Elastic. All cartilage begins as hyaline and can modify based on functional needs.

Most prevalent type, especially in fetuses and infants; contains small groups of chondrocyte cells.
Matrix is smooth, solid, and appears as a bluish-white, glassy tissue.
Notable for its limited capacity for repair after injury.
Locations include articulating surfaces of bones, costal cartilages (rib attachment to sternum), and cartilages of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi.

Dense, tough, and slightly flexible tissue with chondrocytes separated by thick bundles of collagen fibers arranged in parallel.
Provides enhanced strength and support.
Found in intervertebral discs, knee and jaw joints, and the pubic symphysis, as well as surrounding the bony sockets of the hip and shoulder joints.

Contains elastic fibers within the matrix, making it flexible.
The least common type of cartilage.
Located in the pinna of the ear, epiglottis, and forming part of the tunica media in blood vessel walls.

Further reading can be explored through various online resources for in-depth understanding of cartilage types and functions.

Main cell types are chondrocytes and chondroblasts, responsible for the production and maintenance of cartilage.
Cartilage matrix is composed of collagen fibers that provide strength.
Proteoglycans within the matrix help retain water, contributing to cartilage resilience.
Elastic fibers are present in elastic cartilage, allowing for flexibility.
Surrounded by a perichondrium, a sheath of tissue rich in blood vessels, which aids in growth and repair.

Hyaline Cartilage
- Found in the trachea, septum, and joints.
- Serves as a precursor to all cartilage types and is the most abundant.
- Characterized by its translucent appearance.
- Facilitates smooth movement of bones over joints with a low-friction layer of 2-4 mm.
Fibrous Cartilage
- Located in areas like the TMJ, knees, intervertebral discs, and hip/shoulder joints.
- Features thick, dense fibers, making it the strongest cartilage type but with minimal flexibility.
- Effectively disperses body weight and absorbs friction during movement.
Elastic Cartilage
- Found in structures such as the pinna of the ear, epiglottis, and part of the blood vessel wall (tunica media).
- Contains abundant elastic fibers that allow it to return to its original shape.
- The least common cartilage type, with hyaline cartilage being predominant.

Functions as connective tissue providing flexibility and cushioning for joints.
Maintains a firm yet non-calcified structure, unlike rigid bone.
Serves as a temporary skeleton during embryonic and fetal development.
Acts as a template or model for the formation of the skeletal system.