epiphysis

epiphysis /epiph·y·sis/ (ĕ-pif´ĭ-sis) pl. epi´physes   [Gr.] the expanded articular end of a long bone, developed from a secondary ossification center, which during the period of growth is either entirely cartilaginous or is separated from the shaft by a cartilaginous disk.

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annular epiphyses  secondary growth centers occurring as rings at the periphery of the superior and inferior surfaces of the vertebral body.

epiphysis ce´rebri  pineal body.

stippled epiphyses  chondrodysplasia punctata.

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e·piph·y·sis (-pf-ss)

n. pl. e·piph·y·ses (-sz)

1. The end of a long bone that is originally separated from the main bone by a layer of cartilage but that later becomes united to the main bone through ossification.

2. See pineal body.

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epi·physi·al (p-fz-l), epi·physe·al (p-fz-l, -f-sl) adj.

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epiphysis

[epif′isis] pl. epiphyses

Etymology: Gk, epi + phyein, to grow

the enlarged proximal and distal ends of a long bone. See also epiphyseal plate. epiphysial [ipif′əsē′əl] , adj.

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epiphysis (epif´isis),

n the terminal portion of a long bone. The epiphysis is separated from the diaphysis during growth by a cartilaginous zone that serves as a growth center. Once ossification unites the epiphysis with the diaphysis, growth is completed.

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epiphysis

pl. epiphyses [Gr.]

1. the end of a long bone, usually wider than the shaft, and either entirely cartilaginous or separated from the shaft by a cartilaginous disk.

2. part of a bone formed from a secondary center of ossification, commonly found at the ends of long bones, on the margins of flat bones, and at tubercles and processes; during the period of growth epiphyses are separated from the main portion of the bone by cartilage.

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epiphysis cerebri

pineal body.