The term "stratiform fibrocartilage" refers to a type of connective tissue found in the body. The word can be broken down into its four components: strati-form fi-bro-car-tilage. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈstreɪtɪˌfɔrm ˌfaɪbroʊˈkɑrtɪlɪdʒ/. The first syllable "strati" is pronounced as "stray-tee", followed by "form" which is pronounced as "form". The second word "fibro" is pronounced as "fy-bro" and the third word "cartilage" is pronounced as "kar-ti-lage". The correct spelling and pronunciation of "stratiform fibrocartilage" is important in medical terminology.
Stratiform fibrocartilage refers to a specific type of connective tissue found in the human body. It is characterized by its arrangement in layers or lamellae, similar to the structure of sedimentary rocks, which gives it its name "stratiform." Fibrocartilage is a specialized form of cartilage that contains both collagen fibers and cartilage cells (chondrocytes). It is distinguished from other types of cartilage due to its increased density of collagen fibers, which makes it stronger and more resilient.
Stratiform fibrocartilage is commonly found in areas of the body that require both flexibility and support. It is the principal component of structures such as the intervertebral discs in the spine, the pubic symphysis, and certain joint capsules, including the temporomandibular joint. These regions of the body undergo significant mechanical stress and benefit from the cushioning and shock-absorbing properties of stratiform fibrocartilage.
The layers in stratiform fibrocartilage allow it to distribute mechanical loading evenly, providing stability and preventing excessive wear. The characteristic structure of this tissue helps in its functions such as load-bearing, energy absorption, and maintenance of joint mechanics. It acts as a buffer between adjacent bones, improving joint articulation and reducing friction, thus protecting these structures from damage caused by repetitive movements or impact.
Overall, stratiform fibrocartilage is a specialized connective tissue with a layered arrangement, rich in collagen fibers, providing strength, support, and shock absorption to areas of the body that experience significant mechanical stress. Its unique properties make it an essential component in maintaining the integrity and functionality of various joints and structures in the human body.
A layer of f. in the bottom of a groove in a bone through which a tendon runs. See also fibrocartilago.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "stratiform fibrocartilage" is a combination of multiple components that describe its structure and composition.
1. Stratiform: This term derives from the Latin word "stratum", meaning layer. In the context of fibrocartilage, it refers to the layered structure seen in this type of cartilage.
2. Fibro-: The prefix "fibro-" comes from the Latin word "fibra", which means fiber. It indicates that fibrocartilage is composed of densely packed collagen fibers.
3. -cartilage: The suffix "-cartilage" is derived from the Latin word "cartilago", meaning gristle. It refers to a firm and flexible connective tissue found in various parts of the body.