Anatomy & Histology · single question
Which of the following about cartilage growth is INCORRECT (the exception)?
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Correct answer: A. Cartilage grows by intramembranous ossification
- A. Correct — this is the EXCEPTION. Cartilage does NOT grow by INTRAMEMBRANOUS ossification. Intramembranous ossification describes how BONE forms directly from mesenchymal connective tissue (e.g., flat bones of the skull). Cartilage forms through CHONDROGENESIS. Bone replaces cartilage through ENDOCHONDRAL ossification — but cartilage itself does not undergo intramembranous ossification.
- B. Incorrect — this IS true. Cartilage can also grow by APPOSITIONAL growth (new cartilage added from the perichondrium on the outer surface).
- C. Incorrect — this IS true. Cartilage can grow by INTERSTITIAL growth (chondrocytes divide within the matrix, expanding the cartilage from within). Unique to cartilage — cannot occur in bone.
- D. Incorrect — this IS true. Cartilage resists compressive forces well due to its hydrated matrix containing proteoglycans.
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