epiphysisok

Epiphysisok is the Hungarian plural form of epiphysis, the ends of long bones. In English, the term epiphyses refers to the rounded ends that participate in joints and, in growing individuals, are separated from the shaft (diaphysis) by the epiphyseal plate, a layer of cartilage that allows longitudinal bone growth. Epiphyses typically occur as proximal and distal ends on each long bone.

Anatomy and development: Each long bone has a proximal and a distal epiphysis. The surfaces that form joints are covered with articular cartilage. The interior is largely cancellous (spongy) bone surrounded by a thin cortical shell. Epiphyses arise from secondary ossification centers during development, after the diaphysis has already formed from primary ossification centers. The epiphyseal plate remains between the epiphysis and metaphysis during growth and gradually ossifies as growth ends, eventually leaving an epiphyseal line.

Function and clinical significance: Epiphyses contribute to joint movement and load transmission. They are the primary sites of bone growth in length during childhood and adolescence. Injury to the growth plate can disrupt normal growth, making certain fractures (such as Salter-Harris types) particularly important clinically. The integrity of the articular cartilage on the epiphysis is essential for smooth joint function, and damage can predispose to degenerative changes later in life.

Imaging and terminology: In radiographs of children, the epiphyseal plate appears as a radiolucent line between the epiphysis and metaphysis; assessment of growth plates is a key aspect of pediatric imaging. In adults, the epiphysis is fused, leaving an epiphyseal line.