Integumentary Flashcards
(64 cards)
What are the three main layers of the skin?
Epidermis, Dermis, Hypodermis
The epidermis is composed of closely packed keratinized cells, the dermis contains connective tissue and other structures, and the hypodermis consists of connective and fatty tissues.
What is the epidermis made of?
4-5 layers of keratinized stratified squamous epithelial cells
The epidermis is avascular and consists of multiple layers of cells.
What type of skin has a fifth layer called Stratum Lucidum?
Thick skin
Thick skin is found on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
What is the function of keratinocytes?
Manufactures and stores the protein Keratin
Keratin provides hardness and water-resistant properties to hair, skin, and nails.
What are dermal papillae?
Finger-like projections in the superficial portion of the dermis
They increase the connection strength between the epidermis and dermis.
What are basal cells?
Cuboidal shaped stem cells that are precursors of keratinocytes
Basal cells are primarily found in the stratum basale.
What is the role of Merkel cells?
Functions as a receptor for touch
Merkel cells are located in the stratum basale and stimulate sensory nerves.
What is the appearance of the stratum spinosum?
Spiny due to protruding cell processes
The stratum spinosum contains 8-10 layers of keratinocytes.
What occurs in the stratum granulosum?
Keratinocytes become flatter and generate fibrous keratin proteins
This layer has a grainy appearance and helps form the stratum lucidum and corneum.
What is the stratum lucidum?
A smooth, seemingly translucent layer found only in thick skin
It contains dead, flattened keratinocytes densely packed with Eleidin.
What is the function of the stratum corneum?
Prevents penetration of microbes and dehydration of underlying tissues
This layer is shed and replaced approximately every 4 weeks.
What are the two connective tissue layers of the dermis?
Papillary layer, Reticular layer
The papillary layer is loose areolar connective tissue, while the reticular layer is dense, irregular connective tissue.
What is the hypodermis also known as?
Subcutaneous layer or superficial fascia
It connects the skin to underlying fascia of bones and muscles.
What pigments influence skin color?
Melanin, Carotene, Hemoglobin
Melanin is produced by melanocytes, while carotene and hemoglobin also contribute to skin pigmentation.
What are the two primary forms of melanin?
Eumelanin and Pheomelanin
Eumelanin provides black or brown color, while pheomelanin provides a red color.
What is the role of sweat glands in thermoregulation?
Produce sweat to cool the body
Eccrine glands produce hypotonic sweat, while apocrine glands are associated with hair follicles.
What is the primary function of sebaceous glands?
Lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair
They secrete sebum, a mix of lipids, onto the skin surface.
What is the role of hair in the integumentary system?
Protection, sensory input, thermoregulation, communication
Hair also traps air for insulation.
What are the phases of hair growth?
Anagen phase, Catagen phase, Telogen phase
Anagen is active growth, catagen is transitional, and telogen is resting.
What is the nail bed?
Specialized structure of the epidermis at the tip of fingers and toes
It is rich in blood vessels, making it appear pink.
What condition can result from a lack of vitamin D due to insufficient sun exposure?
Rickets
Rickets leads to misshapen bones in children due to lack of calcium.
What is a major consequence of excessive sun exposure?
Skin wrinkling and potential skin cancer
UV rays can cause DNA damage and accelerate aging.
What are the two types of sweat glands?
Eccrine sweat glands, Apocrine sweat glands
Eccrine glands are for thermoregulation, while apocrine glands are associated with hair follicles.
True or False: The stratum lucidum is present in thin skin.
False
The stratum lucidum is only found in thick skin.