Abstract
The tidemark (TM) as boundary between non-calcified and calcified articular cartilage has a complicated structure and fulfils various physiological functions. After undecalcified preparation two structural components of the TM were demarcated: (1) the PAS-positive TM-line adjacent to the basal cartilage and (2) the sublinear light-coloured zone below the TM-line. A morphological model of the TM region was established, which represents the intercartilaginous junction as a double layer of substantially and functionally different surfaces. Pathologic changes of the TM in osteoarthrosis were distinguished by 3 degrees of severity. Low-grade TM alterations were duplicated, dimmed and splitted TM lines. In degree 2 there were only parts of the TM visible and penetrating vessels appeared in the TM. High-grade TM changes were characterized by total loss of the TM and ossification of calcified cartilage. Semiobjective measurements of TM neighbouring structures were carried out and correlated with the TM state. The role of the TM in the pathogenesis of osteoarthrosis was stressed.
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