Integumentary Self Test Flashcards
(50 cards)
What are the diverse functions of the integumentary system?
The integumentary system functions as a protective barrier, regulates body temperature, aids in sensory perception, synthesizes vitamin D, excretes waste products, and prevents dehydration.
Each function plays a critical role in maintaining overall health.
Why is vitamin D important for human health?
Vitamin D is essential for calcium and phosphorus absorption, supports immune function, reduces inflammation, and may help regulate mood.
A deficiency can lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia or osteoporosis in adults.
What could be the possible outcomes of vitamin D deficiency?
Possible outcomes include rickets, osteomalacia, osteoporosis, increased infection risk, fatigue, depression, and autoimmune diseases.
Each condition highlights the critical role of vitamin D in skeletal and overall health.
Fill in the blank: The skin consists of _______ called the epidermis and a deeper connective tissue layer called the dermis.
Keratinized stratified squamous epithelium.
What is the role of the stratum corneum?
The stratum corneum provides a tough, waterproof barrier composed of dead, flattened keratinized cells.
Which layer of the epidermis is responsible for skin regeneration?
Stratum basale.
List the sequential layers of the epidermis that a nail would penetrate in thick skin.
- Stratum corneum
- Stratum lucidum
- Stratum granulosum
- Stratum spinosum
- Stratum basale
- Dermis
Fill in the blank: The tissue deep to the skin is called the _______.
hypodermis.
What are the primary components of the hypodermis?
- Loose connective tissue
- Adipose tissue
- Blood vessels and lymphatics
- Nerves
What are the functions of the hypodermis?
- Insulation
- Energy storage
- Shock absorption
- Anchoring the skin
- Pathway for vessels and nerves
True or False: The hypodermis is technically part of the skin.
False.
What anatomical features make up fingerprints?
- Dermal papillae
- Epidermal ridges
Compare eccrine and apocrine sweat glands in terms of location.
Eccrine sweat glands are found all over the body, while apocrine sweat glands are mainly located in armpits, groin, and around nipples.
What is the primary role of eccrine sweat glands?
Thermoregulation (cooling the body).
What could be the main problem for someone born without sweat glands?
Inability to regulate body temperature, leading to overheating.
How is skin color primarily determined?
By pigments located in the epidermis, especially melanin produced by melanocytes.
List the three pigments that contribute to skin color.
- Melanin
- Carotene
- Hemoglobin
How does melanin protect the skin?
Melanin absorbs and scatters UV radiation, protecting DNA in skin cells from mutation.
What are some diseases related to skin pigments?
- Albinism
- Vitiligo
Who is more vulnerable to skin cancer: someone with more or less functional melanocytes?
Someone with less functional melanocytes.
What condition is indicated by yellow skin?
Jaundice.
What are the features of thick skin?
- All five epidermal layers present
- Thick stratum corneum
- More numerous dermal papillae
- Absent hair follicles and sebaceous glands
What is the advantage of cutting parallel to lines of cleavage during surgery?
It minimizes damage to collagen and elastic fibers, promoting better healing.
What is the primary difference between thick skin and thin skin?
Fewer compared to thick skin.
Thick skin is found on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, while thin skin covers the rest of the body.
