[Development and aging of long bones (the second metacarpal)].

The present paper reviewed studies of the development and aging of the second metacarpal, as an example of the long bone. Bone growth and maturation are related to each other, but keep their individuality. Various hereditary and environmental factors are certainly concerned in the development and aging of long bones, as well as in their relationships. Several topics were picked up for the second metacarpal as follows: pseudo-epiphysis; skeletal maturation; size and density; development and aging; heredity of maturity and growth; relationship of growth and maturation; relative growth; racial, side and sex differences; estimation of age and stature.