Connective tissue composed of cells (chondrocytes) and fibers (collagen or yellow elastic fibers). These are embedded in a firm, gel-like matrix that is rich in mucopolysaccharides. It is much more elastic than bone. Cartilage does not have blood vessels or lymphatics.
Chondrocytes get their nutrition by diffusion. Cartilage has no nerves and is insensitive.
There are 3 types of cartilages:
| Name | Collagen | Appearance | Perichondrium | Calcification | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyaline cartilage | Type 2 | Thin collagen fibre | Bluish/opalescent | Present (except at epiphysis & articular cartilage) | + (old age) |
| Elastic cartilage | Type 2 | Elastic fibre | Yellow | Present | - |
| Fibrocartilage | Type 1 | Thick collagen fibre | White | Absent | + (bone repair) |
Types of Cartilage | Difference between Hyaline Cartilage and Elastic Cartilage | . Retrieved 12 May 2022, from http://www.differencebetween.net/science/health/difference-between-hyaline-cartilage-and-elastic-cartilage/