Anatomy and Physiology: The Skeletal System

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to the anatomy and physiology of bones and the skeletal system.

Bone

A solid connective tissue that serves various functions including protection.

Skeletal System

The body system made up of bones and cartilage that provides support, movement, and protection.

Epiphysis

The end part of a long bone which forms a joint with another bone.

Diaphysis

The shaft or central part of a long bone.

Metaphysis

The region of a long bone between the epiphysis and diaphysis.

Periosteum

A dense irregular connective tissue that covers the surface of bones.

Articular Cartilage

A layer of hyaline cartilage that reduces friction in joints.

Osteoblasts

Cells that form new bone matrix.

Osteocytes

Mature osteoblasts that are completely surrounded by bone matrix.

Osteoclasts

Cells that break down bone tissue.

Compact Bone

Denser bone tissue that provides strength and support.

Spongy Bone

Bone tissue that has a lattice-like structure and contains red bone marrow.

Ossification

The process of forming new bone tissue.

Intramembranous Ossification

A type of bone formation that uses a connective tissue membrane.

Endochondral Ossification

A type of bone formation that uses hyaline cartilage.

Fracture

A break in the bone.

Hematoma

A localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels that forms following a fracture.

Calcitonin (CT)

A hormone that inhibits osteoclast activity and decreases blood calcium levels.

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

A hormone that stimulates osteoclasts and increases blood calcium levels.

Hypocalcemia

Low blood levels of calcium.

Hypercalcemia

High blood levels of calcium.