epiphysis

• Substantivo que designa tanto a extremidade arredondada de um osso longo, inicialmente separada por cartilagem antes de se fundir durante o crescimento, quanto uma pequena glândula endócrina no cérebro que secreta melatonina.

A noun referring to either the rounded end of a long bone, initially separated by cartilage before fusing during growth, or a small endocrine gland in the brain that secretes melatonin.

1. C2formalmedical

   The rounded end of a long bone, initially separated from the main bone by a layer of cartilage that eventually ossifies so the parts become fused.

   Epífise

   • The epiphysis of the femur is crucial for joint articulation.
   • In children, the epiphysis is separated from the diaphysis by a growth plate.
   • Fractures of the epiphysis can affect bone growth.

2. Pineal glandC2formalmedical

   A small endocrine gland in the brain, situated beneath the back part of the corpus callosum, that secretes melatonin.

   Glândula pineal

   • The epiphysis, or pineal gland, regulates sleep-wake cycles.
   • Melatonin produced by the epiphysis helps control circadian rhythms.
   • Calcification of the epiphysis is common in older adults.

   Sinônimospineal gland