Xiphoidnyúlvány

Xiphoidnyúlvány is a Hungarian term that refers to the smallest cartilage in the human body. It is located at the distal end of the sternum, also known as the breastbone, and is an unpaired cartilaginous structure.

In adults, the cartilage gradually ossifies and fuses with the rest of the sternum, losing its distinctiveness. This process typically occurs between the ages of 20 and 40. The xiphoid cartilage is innervated by branches of the intercostal nerves, specifically the tenth rib's nerve plexus.

Morphologically, the xiphoidnyúlvány cartilage is smaller and narrower than the manubrium and body of the sternum. It tends to be more fragile and prone to calcification, which can occur as a result of age or other factors.

Fracture or dislocation of the xiphoid cartilage is relatively rare, but it can occur due to severe trauma, such as falls or high-speed impacts, especially in combination with other chest injuries. Generally, conservative management is recommended for this condition, rather than surgical interventions.

Xiphoidnyúlvány calcification can also be an incidental finding on medical imaging studies like chest X-rays or CT scans. In some cases, this calcification may need to be evaluated further by a healthcare professional, particularly if it is large or involved in the ossification process.

Xiphoidnyúlvány, as an anatomical landmark, is often associated with various medical conditions and procedures, such as thoracentesis, which involves reintroduction of blood or fluid accumulated in the pleural space to mitigate internal injuries and was indeed once known to cause small calcifications). Generally, this cartilage plays a relatively minor yet important role in human anatomy regarding the passage of esophageal region visualization.