Cortical bone

Cortical bone is a type of bone that is much denser and stronger than trabecular bone, the other main type of bone tissue. It is also known as compact bone and makes up about 80% of the total bone mass in an adult human body.

Structure

Cortical bone is composed of multiple layers, or lamellae, which are circular plates of bone matrix that surround the central Haversian canal. The Haversian canal contains the bone's blood vessels and nerve fibers. The cortical bone also contains osteons, which are cylindrical structures that provide a surface for the deposition and removal of bone tissue.

Function

The main function of cortical bone is to support the body and protect the organs. It also provides attachment points for muscles and stores and releases calcium and phosphorus, two minerals that are essential for the body's normal functioning.

Diseases and conditions

Certain diseases and conditions can affect the health and strength of the cortical bone. These include osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle, and osteomalacia, a condition that softens the bones. Other conditions that can affect the cortical bone include Paget's disease of bone, which causes bones to become deformed and weak, and osteogenesis imperfecta, a genetic disorder that causes brittle bones.

Treatment and prevention

Treatment for diseases and conditions that affect the cortical bone typically involves medication, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery. Prevention strategies include maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

See also

• Bone
• Bone tissue
• Trabecular bone
• Osteoporosis
• Osteomalacia
• Paget's disease of bone
• Osteogenesis imperfecta

Cortical bone Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? WikiMD's DocFinder can help find general and specialist physicians.	Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials.