What is an epicondyle?

• A. A hollow cavity within a bone
• B. A bony outcropping near the condyles
• C. A sharp ridge for ligament attachment
• D. A small bump with no muscle attachment

Answer: (B)

An epicondyle is a bony outgrowth just above or near a condyle on a bone. It usually serves as an attachment point for muscles and ligaments, anchoring soft tissues around a joint. This distinguishes it from a hollow cavity (like a fossa or foramen) or a sharp ridge (crest). For example, the humerus has medial and lateral epicondyles at the elbow where forearm muscles attach.