The cartilaginous tip of the xiphoid process in young people, before it ossifies, providing flexibility at the inferior sternum.
Structure
In newborns and young children, the xiphoid is almost entirely cartilage. The tip remains cartilaginous well into adulthood in many people, giving it a softer, more pliable feel than the bony sternal body above.
Function
The cartilage absorbs minor stresses transmitted through the linea alba and the diaphragmatic insertion, reducing the chance of bony injury during compression.
Clinical note
The xiphoid cartilage can be palpated below the sternum, sometimes appearing as a small lump that patients mistake for a tumor.
Find more body parts by letter
Xiphoid Cartilage starts with X and ends with E. Browse other body parts along the same letter.
Body Parts that contain a letter from "Xiphoid Cartilage":