Epiphyseal plate cartilage

The region of growing tissue located at the ends of long bones, facilitating bone growth in length during development.

Epiphyseal plate cartilage, also known as the growth plate, is a hyaline cartilage layer situated in the metaphysis of long bones. This cartilage is critical during the development and growth of bones in children and adolescents, allowing for longitudinal bone growth until the individual reaches skeletal maturity.

Terminologia Anatomica

cartilago epiphysialis

System

Skeletal system

Function

The primary function of the epiphyseal plate cartilage is to support the process of endochondral ossification, where the cartilage gradually transforms into bone. As new cartilage cells are produced on the epiphyseal side of the plate, older cartilage cells at the diaphyseal side undergo calcification and are replaced by bone tissue. This dynamic process enables the bones to lengthen, providing the framework for growth and allowing individuals to achieve their adult height. The regulation of this process is influenced by various hormones, including growth hormone and sex hormones, which activate the epiphyseal plate before puberty and subsequently lead it to close when the bone reaches its final length.

Location

Epiphyseal plate cartilage is located at both ends of long bones, positioned between the epiphysis (the rounded end of the bone) and the diaphysis (the shaft of the bone). Each long bone has a distinct growth plate at either extremity, typically found proximal to the joints. These growth plates can be observed in children and adolescents, as they are areas of active growth. In adults, the epiphyseal plates transform into a solid bony structure known as the epiphyseal line, indicating that bone growth is complete.

Did You Know?

Around the age of 18 to 25, the epiphyseal plates gradually close, and no further longitudinal growth can occur.
In some rare cases, disorders affecting the growth plate can lead to limb length discrepancies or growth abnormalities.
The epiphyseal plate cartilage not only contributes to bone growth but also plays a role in the overall health of the joints by maintaining a smooth articulating surface.