Anatomy A215 Virtual
Microscopy
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Cartilage is a specialized connective tissue. Its cells, called
chondrocytes, reside in spaces called lacunae (singular:
lacuna).
Most surfaces of cartilage are covered by a thin fibrous layer or
membrane, the perichondrium. There are three types of cartilage,
each with a unique appearance. |
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This section of the TRACHEA
demonstrates hyaline cartilage. The term hyaline refers to the
glassy appearance of this type, whether seen grossly or, between the
lacunae, on the microscopic level. The other two types of cartilage,
elastic (which is named for its many darkly stained elastic fibers and
distinct lacunae), and fibrocartilage (which is named for its bundles of
fibers and may resemble dense regular connective tissue) are not
found in the trachea.
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A215 Home Page
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Table of Contents
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See
this slide with the virtual
microscope