Epiphyseal plate

Definition

The epiphyseal plate, also known as the growth plate, is a hyaline cartilage plate located at the ends of long bones. It is responsible for longitudinal bone growth during childhood and adolescence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The epiphyseal plate is found in the metaphysis, between the epiphysis and diaphysis of long bones.
2. Bone growth occurs through the process of endochondral ossification at the epiphyseal plate.
3. As individuals reach adulthood, the epiphyseal plate calcifies and becomes an epiphyseal line, signaling the end of bone growth.
4. Growth hormone (GH) significantly influences activity at the epiphyseal plate.
5. Injuries to the epiphyseal plate can result in impaired bone growth or deformities.

Review Questions

• Where is the epiphyseal plate located in long bones?
• What happens to the epiphyseal plate when an individual reaches adulthood?
• How does growth hormone affect the epiphyseal plate?

Related terms

Metaphysis: The region of a long bone between the diaphysis and the epiphysis that contains the growth plate.

Endochondral Ossification: The process by which growing cartilage is systematically replaced by bone to form a mature skeleton.

Epiphyseal Line: A remnant of the epiphyseal plate seen in adult bones after they have stopped growing.