TY - CHAP M1 - Book, Section TI - Chapter 181. Connective Tissue Dysplasias A1 - Rope, Alan A2 - Rudolph, Colin D. A2 - Rudolph, Abraham M. A2 - Lister, George E. A2 - First, Lewis R. A2 - Gershon, Anne A. PY - 2011 T2 - Rudolph's Pediatrics, 22e AB - The connective tissues are a challenging entity to define precisely in isolation, as they are a component of every system of the body. They can be characterized as an ordered array of cells and extracellular matrix (specific protein fibers and amorphous ground substance). From a functional perspective, connective tissues provide structure, support, protection, delineate tissue boundaries, and serve as a medium for cellular transport, nutrient exchange and storage and play an especially significant role in the normal operation of skeletal, dermatologic, cardiovascular, humoral, and sensory systems. SN - PB - The McGraw-Hill Companies CY - New York, NY Y2 - 2024/03/29 UR - accesspediatrics.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=6729240 ER -