Functions of Skin Flashcards
what are the different functions of skin (6)
barrier function, metabolism & detoxification, thermoregulation, immune defence, communication, sensory functions
in what different ways does skin act as a barrier
two-way barrier(epidermis), chemical, physical, pathogen
what does skin act as a physical barrier against
friction, mechanical trauma, ultraviolet radiation
what does skin act as a chemical barrier against
irritants, allergens, toxins
describe the different active metabolisms within the skin
Vit D metabolism, thyroid hormone metabolism, defence against chemicals, drugs, pollutants and sunlight
what is Vit. D3 stored as and where is it stored
stored as hydroxycholecalciferol(aka 25-hydroxy vitamin D3) in the liver
where and into what is Vit. D3 converted to by metabolism
converted to 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol in the kidney
describe the conversion that occurs in the thyroid metabolism, and what % of this occurs in the peripheral tissues
thyroxine converted to triiodothyronine
80% occurs in peripheral tissues including skin
what is the thermoregulation function of the skin protective against
protects body from being too hot or too cold
describe what is involved in thermoregulation by the skin
warm/cold sensitive thermoreceptors, behavioural changes, control sweating/shivering/blood supply
what immune responses is the skin important in
protection against infection, sunlight responses, allergic reactions
what cells are important in the skins immune defence
Langerhans and T cells
in what different ways can skin affect social and communication
visual, odour, sociosexual behaviour, stigma
give an example of how stigma can effect those with skin conditions
severe acne vulgaris is associated with unemployment
what different sensory functions are there of the skin
touch, pressure, vibration, hot, cold, pain, itch
