Which term denotes the softening of cartilage?

• A. Chondrocyte
• B. Chondrectomy
• C. Chondromalacia
• D. Cervical

Answer: (C)

Chondromalacia is the term that denotes softening of cartilage. The word combines chondro-, meaning cartilage, with -malacia, meaning softening or degeneration. In this condition, the cartilage becomes less firm and can become rough or frayed, which often leads to pain and grinding sensations during joint movement, especially in the knee where the patella glides over the femur. This contrasts with chondrocyte, which are the cells that maintain cartilage; chondrectomy, which is a surgical removal of cartilage; and cervical, which refers to the neck region and is unrelated to cartilage changes.