[03] Skin Repair and Growth Flashcards
What are the key stages of skin repair after an injury?
- Hemostasis
- Inflammatory
- Proliferative
- Maturation
What is hemostasis in skin repair?
The process where blood clotting occurs to prevent excessive bleeding
What happens during the inflammatory stage of skin repair?
White blood cells arrive to fight infection and remove debris
What is the role of the proliferative stage in skin repair?
New cells are produced and a new network of blood vessels is constructed
What occurs during the maturation phase of skin repair?
The wound fully closes and the new tissue strengthens and gains flexibility
How does the skin grow?
New skin cells are produced at the bottom of the epidermis and then pushed up to the surface as they mature
What is the epidermis?
The outermost layer of the skin
What cells in the skin are responsible for its growth?
Keratinocytes, which produce keratin, a protein that gives skin its toughness and waterproofing properties
What is keratin?
A type of protein found in the skin, hair, and nails
How often does the epidermis completely renew itself?
Every 4 to 6 weeks
What is the dermis?
The layer of skin beneath the epidermis
What components are found in the dermis?
- Blood vessels
- Nerve endings
- Hair follicles
- Sweat glands
What is a scar?
A mark left on the skin after the healing of a wound
Why are scars different in appearance from normal skin?
The collagen fibers in scar tissue are arranged differently than in normal skin tissue
What are stretch marks?
Scars that form when the skin is stretched rapidly (such as during pregnancy or rapid weight gain)
