Perichondrium

Perichondrium

The Perichondrium is a layer of dense irregular connective tissue which surrounds the cartilage of developing bone. It is involved in the growth and repair of cartilage.

Structure

The perichondrium consists of two layers: an outer fibrous layer and an inner chondrogenic layer. The fibrous layer contains fibroblasts, which produce collagen, and the chondrogenic layer produces chondroblasts, which form cartilage.

Function

The perichondrium serves several functions: it acts as a source of new cartilage cells, it is involved in the growth and repair of cartilage, and it provides nutrients to the cartilage.

Clinical significance

Damage to the perichondrium can lead to a variety of medical conditions, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, the perichondrium plays a key role in the surgical procedure known as autologous chondrocyte implantation.

See also

• Cartilage
• Connective tissue
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis

External links

• Perichondrium at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)