Medullary cavity

The Medullary Cavity is a central cavity located within the shaft of long bones, such as the femur and humerus. It is filled with yellow marrow, which is involved in the storage of fats and the production of certain blood cells.

Structure

The Medullary Cavity is surrounded by a thick layer of compact bone tissue, which provides strength and support. The inner surface of the cavity is lined with a thin layer of endosteum, a type of connective tissue that is involved in bone growth, repair, and remodeling.

Function

The primary function of the Medullary Cavity is to house the yellow marrow. This marrow is responsible for the production of fat cells, platelets, and certain types of white blood cells. In addition, the Medullary Cavity serves as a reservoir for minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, which can be released into the bloodstream as needed.

Clinical Significance

Changes in the Medullary Cavity can be indicative of various medical conditions. For example, an increase in the size of the cavity can be a sign of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by a decrease in bone density. Conversely, a decrease in the size of the Medullary Cavity can be indicative of osteopetrosis, a rare genetic disorder that results in abnormally dense bones.

See Also

• Bone marrow
• Bone tissue
• Endosteum
• Osteoporosis
• Osteopetrosis

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  Structure of a Long Bone