Which cartilage is found in the C-spine and rib cage?

• A. Type I
• B. Hyaline cartilage
• C. Elastic cartilage
• D. Elastin

Answer: (D)

Cartilage types differ by composition and typical locations. The cartilage that forms the rib costal cartilage and lines the articulating surfaces in the spine is hyaline cartilage. It’s the most common cartilage in the body, providing a smooth, low-friction surface and good ability to absorb compressive forces at joints. Elastic cartilage, with elastic fibers, is found in structures needing more flexibility like the ear and epiglottis. Type I refers to collagen found mainly in bone, tendon, and skin, not cartilage. Elastin is a protein in elastic fibers, not a cartilage type. So hyaline cartilage is the cartilage present in both the C-spine joints and the rib cage.