Anatomy: Bone Tissue

Osteogenic Cell

A precursor cell that differentiates into osteoblasts, which are responsible for bone formation.

Osteoblast

A cell that synthesizes bone matrix and is involved in the mineralization of bone.

Osteocyte

A mature bone cell that maintains the bone matrix and communicates with other bone cells.

Extracellular Matrix

The non-cellular component of bone tissue, consisting of water, proteins, collagen fibers, and mineral salts.

Hydroxyapatite

A crystalline structure composed of calcium phosphate that provides strength to bone tissue.

Compact Bone

A dense type of bone tissue organized into osteons, providing structural support and protection.

Spongy Bone

Also known as cancellous bone, it consists of trabeculae and is lighter, providing support and housing red marrow.

Osteon

The structural unit of compact bone, consisting of concentric rings of calcified matrix surrounding a central canal.

Lacunae

Small spaces within bone tissue that house osteocytes.

Canaliculi

Microscopic channels that connect lacunae, allowing communication between osteocytes.

Trabeculae

Thin plates of bone in spongy bone that are oriented along lines of stress.

Intramembranous Ossification

The process of bone formation directly from fibrous connective tissue membranes.

Endochondral Ossification

The process of bone formation from hyaline cartilage models.

Epiphyseal Plates

Growth plates in long bones where new bone is formed during growth.

Fracture Hematoma

A localized collection of blood that forms at the site of a bone fracture.

Fibrocartilaginous Callus

A temporary formation that bridges the gap between broken bone ends during healing.

Bony Callus

A hard callus that forms during the later stages of bone healing.

Arthritis

A group of disorders characterized by inflammation of the joints.

Scoliosis

An abnormal lateral curvature of the spine.

Gout

A form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints.

Spina Bifida

A birth defect resulting from incomplete development of the spinal cord or its coverings.

Myeloma

A type of cancer that originates in the bone marrow, leading to the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells.