epiphysiale

Epiphysiale is a term used in anatomy and developmental biology to refer to the epiphyses, which are the rounded ends of long bones that contribute to joint formation and growth. These structures are critical for the proper development of limb and skeletal morphology. The epiphysis is typically separated from the diaphysis, or shaft of the bone, by the epiphyseal plate, a layer of cartilage that facilitates bone lengthening during growth.

During childhood and adolescence, the epiphysiale regions are the sites of active growth, characterized by the presence of hyaline cartilage capable of mitotic division. As an individual matures, the epiphyseal plates gradually ossify and fuse with the diaphysis, finalizing the growth of the bone. The timing of this fusion varies among different bones and individuals, generally completing in early adulthood.

The structure of the epiphysiale includes spongy cancellous bone covered by a thin layer of compact bone, and it usually articulates with adjacent bones in a joint, contributing to mobility and load distribution. Blood supply to the epiphyses is provided mainly through metaphyseal and epiphyseal arteries, ensuring necessary nutrients for growth and maintenance.

Understanding the development and anatomy of the epiphysiale is essential in fields such as orthopedics, pediatrics, and radiology, especially when diagnosing growth disorders, fractures, and conditions like epiphyseal injuries, which can affect bone growth and joint health.