Which cartilage type is commonly found in intervertebral discs?

• A. Fibrocartilage
• B. Hyaline cartilage
• C. Elastic cartilage
• D. Articular cartilage

Answer: (A)

Intervertebral discs are designed to absorb shock and allow movement, so the tissue in the outer ring needs to be tough and resistant to tearing. That outer region, the annulus fibrosus, is made of fibrocartilage. Fibrocartilage combines cartilage with dense collagen fibers, giving high tensile strength while still providing some flexibility. This structure helps the disc handle the combined compressive loads and shear forces the spine experiences.

Hycare cartilage, found on joint surfaces, provides slippery, smooth movement but isn’t as resistant to tearing. Elastic cartilage offers more flexible support in structures like the ear and epiglottis, not the weight-bearing, load-transmitting role of intervertebral discs. So fibrocartilage is the type most characteristic of intervertebral discs.