Which anatomical region is the primary location of red bone marrow in a healthy adult?

• A. Articular cartilage
• B. Epiphyses of long bones
• C. Medullary cavity of short bones
• D. Diaphysis of long bones

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the function of red bone marrow: Red bone marrow is responsible for hematopoiesis, the production of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
2. Review the anatomy of long bones: Long bones consist of several regions, including the epiphyses (ends of the bone), diaphysis (shaft of the bone), and medullary cavity (central hollow region).
3. Identify the location of red bone marrow in adults: In healthy adults, red bone marrow is primarily found in the epiphyses of long bones, such as the femur and humerus, as well as in flat bones like the sternum and pelvis.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Articular cartilage is a smooth tissue covering the ends of bones in joints and does not contain red bone marrow. The medullary cavity of short bones and the diaphysis of long bones primarily contain yellow bone marrow in adults, which stores fat.
5. Conclude that the correct anatomical region for red bone marrow in healthy adults is the epiphyses of long bones, as this is where active hematopoiesis occurs.