Elastic Cartilage

Definition

Elastic cartilage is a flexible type of connective tissue that provides support while allowing for flexibility and resilience. This unique cartilage is made up of a dense network of elastic fibers in addition to the standard collagen fibers, which helps it maintain its shape even after being bent or deformed. Its composition makes elastic cartilage crucial in areas of the body that require both support and elasticity, such as the outer ear and the epiglottis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Elastic cartilage contains a high density of elastic fibers, which allow it to stretch and return to its original shape without damage.
2. This type of cartilage is primarily found in structures that require both strength and flexibility, like the external ear (pinna) and the epiglottis.
3. Elastic cartilage is surrounded by a perichondrium, a dense layer of connective tissue that supplies nutrients to the cartilage and aids in repair.
4. Unlike hyaline cartilage, elastic cartilage can endure repeated bending due to its unique fiber composition.
5. The presence of chondrocytes within lacunae helps maintain the integrity and function of elastic cartilage through the production of extracellular matrix.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of elastic cartilage enable its unique functional properties compared to other types of cartilage?
  • Elastic cartilage has a distinctive structure characterized by a high density of elastic fibers along with collagen. This combination allows it to provide support while remaining flexible. Unlike hyaline cartilage, which primarily supports with less elasticity, elastic cartilage can withstand bending forces without losing its shape. This makes it ideal for structures like the outer ear and epiglottis that require both resilience and flexibility.
• In what anatomical locations would you expect to find elastic cartilage, and why are these locations significant for its function?
  • Elastic cartilage is primarily found in areas such as the external ear (pinna) and the epiglottis. These locations are significant because they require structures that must be both firm yet able to bend without damage. For instance, the outer ear needs to maintain its shape while also allowing for movement, while the epiglottis must be flexible enough to close over the windpipe during swallowing yet return to its original position afterward.
• Evaluate the implications of damage to elastic cartilage in areas like the ear or epiglottis on overall functionality and health.
  • Damage to elastic cartilage can significantly impair functionality in critical areas like the ear or epiglottis. In the ear, damage can lead to deformities that affect hearing or balance. For the epiglottis, compromised elasticity can hinder its ability to close off the windpipe effectively during swallowing, increasing the risk of aspiration or choking. Understanding this damage highlights the importance of maintaining healthy elastic cartilage for overall health and proper functioning in these vital areas.

Related terms

Hyaline Cartilage: A type of cartilage that is smooth and glassy, providing support and flexibility, and is found in areas such as the nose, trachea, and ends of long bones.

Fibrocartilage: A tough, dense type of cartilage that contains a higher concentration of collagen fibers, providing strength and resistance to compressive forces, found in intervertebral discs and menisci.

Chondrocytes: The specialized cells found within cartilage that produce and maintain the cartilaginous matrix, playing a key role in the health and repair of cartilage tissue.