What are the main types of cartilage and where are they found?

There are three main types: Hyaline cartilage (most common, found in joints, ribs, nose, trachea, and larynx), Elastic cartilage (rich in elastic fibers, found in the ear pinna and epiglottis), and Fibrocartilage (dense collagen fibers, found in intervertebral discs and pubic symphysis).

What are the key functions of cartilage in the body?

Cartilage provides structural support to soft tissues, forms smooth surfaces at joints for movement, and serves as a precursor for long bone development during growth.

How does cartilage grow and repair itself?

Cartilage grows through two methods: appositional growth (increases width by new cartilage deposition) and interstitial growth (increases length by chondrocyte division). Repair is limited due to avascularity, often resulting in scar tissue.

Why is cartilage considered avascular and what are the implications?

Cartilage lacks blood vessels, relying on nutrient diffusion through its matrix. This makes it insensitive (no nerves) and causes slow healing, but also gives it low antigenicity, making it suitable for grafts.

What is the structure of cartilage, including its cells and matrix?

Cartilage consists of cells like chondrocytes (mature cells) and a matrix with fibers (e.g., Type II collagen in hyaline cartilage) and ground substance (rich in water and glycosaminoglycans).

What is the perichondrium and which types of cartilage lack it?

The perichondrium is a covering layer of cartilage. Articular cartilage and fibrocartilage lack a perichondrium, which affects their growth and repair capabilities.

Cartilage – Types, Structure & Growth