Synonym
periosteum = periosteal meningitis = periostitis
Definition: periosteum
The periosteum is a thin layer that surrounds the bones, is well supplied with blood and nerves, and has a protective function as well as nourishing the bone.
Structure of the periosteum
The periosteum covers all bones of the human body. It is divided into two layers, an inner layer and an outer layer. The inner layer is also called stratum osteogenicum.
Among other things, it contains bone-forming cells, also known as osteoblasts. They will perform increased educational work especially when bone cells perish due to heavy stress on the bone. Even if fractures or necroses occur in the bone, the osteoblasts will jump in and produce more new bone cells.
Furthermore, this part of the periosteum is also responsible for the supply of nutrients to the bone. For this purpose, nutrient-rich blood is brought into the bone via the blood vessels running in this layer. In addition, numerous nerve cells pass through this layer of the periosteum.
The second layer is the outer layer. It is also known as the stratum fibrosum. This is where mainly cell-poor connective tissue is found.
While the inner layer is mainly responsible for metabolic processes and for the supply of bone, the outer layer has mainly holding and supporting functions. The connective tissue passes through the inner layer in the form of septa and penetrates into the core of the bone, the so-called compacta, where it is anchored. The bone itself has no nerve connection that can transmit sensitive stimuli.
The periosteum has corresponding sensitive nerve supplies that are irritated in the event of trauma or injury and can thus transmit pain to the brain. This part of the periosteum therefore has a decisive role in the perception of pain and can therefore be seen as the warning system of the bone. Even in the case of inflammation, the nerve tracts of the periosteum transmit the pain stimulus and thus indicate a serious illness. Bone pain, which is passed on by these nerve tracts, is also often described in certain forms of leukemia. The most harmless form of bone pain is the so-called growth pain, which is often observed in adolescents.