General Osteology Flashcards
Osteoporosis
A condition of decreased bone density. Bone density peaks between 30 to 35 years of age, with progressive decrease thereafter. Calcium is the primary mineral that contributes to the hard nature of bone. Vitamin D is necessary for proper absorption of calcium from the GI tract and its incorporation into the bony matrix. Hormones, including estrogen and testosterone, increase bone mass. Factors that contribute to the development of osteoporosis include inadequate intake of calcium and low levels of vitamin D. Women, who have a lower bone density than men, are at increased risk of osteoporosis, especially after menopause when estrogen levels decrease.
Achondroplasia
A genetic condition that leads to short stature due to abnormal growth of the long bones. Characteristic fractures of this condition include shortened upper and lower extremities, with a disproportionally long trunk. The short limbs result from an inhibition of chondrocyte division and development in the growth plate. Achondroplasia is diagnosed in 1 in 15,000 to 40,000 births worldwide.
Diaphysis
The tubular shaft of the long bone.
Epiphysis
The end portion of a long bone that has a separate ossification center.
Metaphysic
That portion of a mature bone sandwiched between the diaphysis and epiphysis.
Tuberosity
A large eminence
Tubercle
A small eminence
Trochanter
A large, very prominent eminence
Process
A bony prominence
Articular surface
A joint surface
Facet
A small articular surface
Condyle
A rounded articular surface
Epicondyle
A nonarticular projection next to a condyle
Head
A large, rounded end of a bone
Neck
The part between the head and the diaphysis; there are usually separate surgical and anatomical necks
