Integumentary System Flashcards
Covers the structure of the skin, hair, and nails, along with common dermatological conditions and related medical terminology. (119 cards)
1
Q
Define:
epidermis
A
The outermost layer of skin, providing a protective barrier and containing no blood vessels.
The epidermis is essential for protecting underlying tissues from environmental damage.
2
Q
Define:
dermis
A
The layer of skin beneath the epidermis, containing connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves.
The dermis supports the epidermis and houses hair follicles and sweat glands.
3
Q
Define:
hypodermis (subcutaneous tissue)
A
The layer of tissue beneath the dermis, consisting mainly of fat and connective tissue, which insulates the body and absorbs shock.
The hypodermis acts as a cushion, protecting muscles and bones from impact.
4
Q
Define:
stratum corneum
A
The outermost layer of the epidermis, composed of dead keratinized cells that provide a barrier to water loss and environmental damage.
The stratum corneum is crucial for preventing dehydration and protecting against pathogens.
5
Q
Define:
stratum lucidum
A
A thin, clear layer of dead skin cells found only in thick skin areas, such as the palms and soles.
The stratum lucidum provides an additional layer of protection in areas subject to friction.
6
Q
Define:
stratum granulosum
A
A layer of the epidermis where keratinocytes begin to flatten and lose their nuclei, contributing to the skin’s barrier function.
In the stratum granulosum, cells start to undergo keratinization, which is vital for skin integrity.
7
Q
Define:
stratum spinosum
A
The layer of the epidermis consisting of several layers of keratinocytes that provide strength and flexibility to the skin.
The stratum spinosum contains cells that help to form a barrier against pathogens.
8
Q
Define:
stratum basale (germinativum)
A
The deepest layer of the epidermis, where new skin cells are generated and melanocytes produce melanin.
The stratum basale is responsible for the continuous renewal of the skin’s outer layer.
9
Q
Define:
keratin
A
A fibrous protein that forms the structural basis of hair, nails, and the outer layer of skin.
Keratin provides strength and resilience to skin and hair.
10
Q
Define:
keratinocyte
A
The primary cell type found in the epidermis that produces keratin and contributes to the skin’s protective barrier.
Keratinocytes play a key role in skin health and regeneration.
11
Q
Define:
melanocyte
A
A cell in the epidermis that produces melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color and protection against UV radiation.
Melanocytes are crucial for determining skin tone and protecting against sun damage.
12
Q
Define:
melanin
A
A pigment produced by melanocytes that gives skin, hair, and eyes their color and protects against UV radiation.
Melanin levels vary among individuals, influencing their susceptibility to sunburn.
13
Q
Define:
Langerhans cells
A
Immune cells located in the epidermis that help detect and fight off pathogens.
Langerhans cells are essential for the skin’s immune response.
14
Q
Define:
Merkel cells
A
Specialized cells in the epidermis that are involved in the sensation of touch.
Merkel cells play a key role in the skin’s ability to sense pressure and texture.
15
Q
Define:
basal lamina
A
A thin layer of extracellular matrix that supports the epidermis and separates it from the dermis.
The basal lamina provides structural support to the epidermis.
16
Q
Define:
papillary layer
A
The upper layer of the dermis, characterized by finger-like projections that interdigitate with the epidermis, providing nutrients and sensation.
The papillary layer enhances the grip of the epidermis and contains capillaries and sensory receptors.
17
Q
Define:
reticular layer
A
The deeper layer of the dermis that contains dense connective tissue, hair follicles, and larger blood vessels.
The reticular layer provides strength and elasticity to the skin.
18
Q
Define:
collagen
A
A structural protein found in the skin that provides strength and elasticity, making up a significant part of the dermis.
Collagen is essential for maintaining skin firmness and resilience.
19
Q
Define:
elastin
A
A protein in the dermis that allows skin to return to its original shape after stretching or contracting.
Elastin contributes to the skin’s elasticity and flexibility.
20
Q
Define:
sebaceous glands
A
Glands in the skin that produce sebum, an oily substance that lubricates and protects the skin and hair.
Sebaceous glands help to maintain skin hydration and prevent dryness.
21
Q
Define:
sweat glands (sudoriferous glands)
A
Glands that produce sweat to help regulate body temperature and maintain homeostasis.
Sweat glands become active during exercise to cool the body.
22
Q
Define:
eccrine glands
A
A type of sweat gland that is widely distributed across the body and helps regulate body temperature through sweat production.
Eccrine glands are crucial for thermoregulation, especially in hot weather.
23
Q
Define:
apocrine glands
A
Sweat glands located primarily in the armpits and groin that produce a thicker, milky sweat associated with body odor.
Apocrine glands become active during puberty and contribute to body odor.
24
Q
Define:
pore
A
A tiny opening in the skin that allows sweat and oils to reach the surface.
Pores can become clogged, leading to acne and other skin issues.
25
# Define:
hair follicle
A **structure in the skin from which hair grows**, containing the hair root and associated glands.
## Footnote
Each *hair follicle* has its own sebaceous gland that helps to lubricate the hair.
26
# Define:
hair shaft
The **visible part of the hair** that extends above the skin surface.
## Footnote
The *hair shaft* is composed of keratin and protects the hair root beneath.
27
# Define:
hair root
The part of the hair that is **embedded within the hair follicle** beneath the skin.
## Footnote
The *hair root* is where hair growth occurs and is nourished by blood vessels.
28
# Define:
arrector pili muscle
A **small muscle attached to hair follicles** that causes hairs to stand up when contracted, often in response to cold or fear.
## Footnote
The contraction of the *arrector pili muscle* is responsible for the phenomenon known as goosebumps.
29
# Define:
dermal papilla
**Small, nipple-like projections in the dermis** that interlock with the epidermis, increasing the surface area for nutrient exchange.
## Footnote
*Dermal papillae* play a crucial role in strengthening the connection between the dermis and epidermis.
30
# Define:
cuticle (of hair and nails)
The **thin layer of dead skin** that overlaps the base of the nail or the hair shaft, protecting the underlying tissue.
## Footnote
The *cuticle* helps prevent infections around the nail bed.
31
# Define:
nail plate
The **hard, visible part of the nail** that covers the nail bed and is composed of keratin.
## Footnote
The *nail plate* is what we commonly refer to as the nail itself.
32
# Define:
nail bed
The **skin beneath the nail plate**, which is rich in blood vessels and nerves.
## Footnote
The *nail bed* supports the nail plate and provides it with nutrients.
33
# Define:
nail matrix
The **tissue under the base of the nail** where new nail cells are produced, leading to nail growth.
## Footnote
The *nail matrix* is crucial for the formation of new nail material.
34
# Define:
lunula
The **crescent-shaped white area at the base of the nail**, indicating the presence of the nail matrix.
## Footnote
The *lunula* is often more visible on the thumb than on other fingers.
35
# Define:
hyponychium
The **area of thickened skin beneath the free edge of the nail** that helps protect the nail bed.
## Footnote
The *hyponychium* serves as a barrier against infections at the tip of the finger.
36
# Define:
eponychium (cuticle)
The layer of skin that **overlaps and protects the base of the nail**, also known as the **cuticle**.
## Footnote
The *eponychium* helps protect the nail matrix from pathogens.
37
# Define:
free edge (of the nail)
The **part of the nail that extends beyond the fingertip** and is not attached to the nail bed.
## Footnote
The *free edge* can be trimmed to maintain nail appearance.
38
# Define:
thermoregulation
The process by which the **body maintains its internal temperature** within a narrow range despite external temperature fluctuations.
## Footnote
*Thermoregulation* is essential for optimal body function, especially during physical activity.
39
# Define:
sensation
The ability to **perceive stimuli through sensory receptors in the skin**, such as touch, pain, and temperature.
## Footnote
*Sensations* from the skin provide important information about the environment.
40
# Define:
protection
The **role of the skin** in guarding the body's internal structures against physical damage, pathogens, and harmful substances.
## Footnote
The skin's *protection* helps prevent infections and injuries.
41
# Define:
vitamin D synthesis
The process by which the **skin produces vitamin D** when exposed to sunlight, essential for bone health and immune function.
## Footnote
*Vitamin D synthesis* occurs primarily in the skin when UV rays convert cholesterol to vitamin D.
42
# Define:
homeostasis
The body's ability to **maintain a stable internal environment** despite changes in external conditions.
## Footnote
*Homeostasis* is crucial for overall health and is supported by the skin's various functions.
43
# Define:
barrier function
The skin's ability to **act as a barrier** to prevent the loss of water and protect against external threats.
## Footnote
The skin's *barrier function* is essential for preventing dehydration and infection.
44
# Define:
immune response
The **reaction of the immune system** to foreign substances, including pathogens, to protect the body from disease.
## Footnote
The skin plays a role in the *immune response* by acting as the first line of defense.
45
# Define:
transdermal absorption
The process by which **substances are absorbed through the skin** into the bloodstream.
## Footnote
*Transdermal absorption* is utilized in certain medications to deliver drugs effectively.
46
# Define:
desquamation (shedding of skin)
The natural process of **shedding dead skin cells** from the outer layer of the epidermis.
## Footnote
*Desquamation* helps to maintain healthy skin by removing old cells.
47
# Define:
acne vulgaris
A **common skin condition** characterized by the formation of pimples, blackheads, and cysts due to clogged hair follicles.
## Footnote
*Acne vulgaris* often occurs during adolescence and can persist into adulthood.
48
# Define:
psoriasis
A **chronic autoimmune condition** that causes rapid skin cell turnover, leading to thick, scaly patches on the skin.
## Footnote
*Psoriasis* can be triggered by stress, infections, or certain medications.
49
# Define:
eczema (atopic dermatitis)
A **chronic inflammatory skin condition** characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
## Footnote
*Eczema* often occurs in childhood and may improve with age.
50
# Define:
contact dermatitis
An **inflammatory skin reaction** caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen.
## Footnote
*Contact dermatitis* can result in redness, itching, and blistering.
51
# Define:
seborrheic dermatitis
A **common skin condition** causing red, flaky patches, often on the scalp, face, and upper body, associated with oily skin.
## Footnote
*Seborrheic dermatitis* is often seen in infants as cradle cap.
52
# Define:
rosacea
A **chronic skin condition** characterized by facial redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes pimples.
## Footnote
*Rosacea* often affects adults and can be triggered by heat, spicy foods, or alcohol.
53
# Define:
urticaria (hives)
A skin reaction characterized by **raised, itchy welts** that can result from allergies or other triggers.
## Footnote
*Urticaria* can appear suddenly and may resolve quickly or persist for longer periods.
54
# Define:
vitiligo
A skin condition characterized by the **loss of skin pigment**, resulting in white patches on the skin.
## Footnote
*Vitiligo* can affect any area of the skin and may also involve hair and mucous membranes.
55
# Define:
hyperpigmentation
The **darkening of an area of skin** caused by an excess of melanin, often resulting from sun exposure or inflammation.
## Footnote
*Hyperpigmentation* can occur after acne or other skin injuries.
56
# Define:
hypopigmentation
A **reduction in skin pigment**, leading to lighter patches of skin, which can result from various conditions.
## Footnote
*Hypopigmentation* can occur after inflammation or certain skin treatments.
57
# Define:
albinism
A genetic condition characterized by a **lack of melanin**, resulting in very light skin, hair, and eyes.
## Footnote
*Albinism* increases susceptibility to sunburn and skin cancer.
58
# Define:
melasma
A skin condition characterized by **brown or gray-brown patches**, often occurring on the face and related to hormonal changes.
## Footnote
*Melasma* is commonly seen in pregnant women and those taking birth control pills.
59
# Define:
tinea (ringworm)
A fungal infection of the skin that appears as a **ring-shaped, red, itchy rash** with clear centers.
## Footnote
*Tinea* is contagious and can spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces.
60
# Define:
athlete's foot (tinea pedis)
A **fungal infection** that affects the **skin on the feet**, causing itching, burning, and peeling.
## Footnote
*Athlete's foot* is often contracted in damp environments, such as locker rooms.
61
# Define:
fungal infections
**Infections caused by fungi** that can affect the skin, nails, and mucous membranes, leading to various symptoms.
## Footnote
*Fungal infections* can be treated with antifungal medications.
62
# Define:
warts (verruca)
**Benign growths** on the skin caused by **human papillomavirus (HPV)**, often appearing as rough, raised bumps.
## Footnote
*Warts* can be treated with topical therapies or removed by a healthcare provider.
63
# Define:
molluscum contagiosum
A viral skin infection that causes **small, firm, raised bumps**, often seen in children.
## Footnote
*Molluscum contagiosum* is contagious and usually resolves on its own over time.
64
# Define:
herpes simplex
A viral infection causing **sores on the mouth or genitals**, commonly known as cold sores or genital herpes.
## Footnote
*Herpes simplex* can remain dormant in the body and reactivate during stress.
65
# Define:
herpes zoster (shingles)
A viral infection caused by the **reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus**, leading to painful, blistering rashes.
## Footnote
*Herpes zoster* typically affects one side of the body and can cause significant discomfort.
66
# Define:
impetigo
A highly contagious bacterial skin infection characterized by **red sores that can rupture and ooze**.
## Footnote
*Impetigo* is common in children and can spread through direct contact.
67
# Define:
cellulitis
A **bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissues**, resulting in redness, swelling, and pain.
## Footnote
*Cellulitis* can occur after a break in the skin and may require antibiotic treatment.
68
# Define:
abscess
A **localized collection of pus** that forms due to infection, leading to swelling and pain in the affected area.
## Footnote
An *abscess* may require drainage and antibiotics for proper treatment.
69
# Define:
folliculitis
An **infection or inflammation of hair follicles**, often resulting in red, itchy bumps.
## Footnote
*Folliculitis* can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or irritation from shaving.
70
# Define:
carbuncle
A **painful cluster of boils** caused by bacterial infection, typically involving multiple hair follicles.
## Footnote
A *carbuncle* often requires medical intervention and antibiotics for treatment.
71
# Define:
boil (furuncle)
A **painful, pus-filled bump** that forms under the skin due to infection of a hair follicle.
## Footnote
A *boil* can drain on its own or may need to be lanced by a healthcare provider.
72
# Define:
skin tags (acrochordons)
**Small, benign growths** of skin that often appear on areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing.
## Footnote
*Skin tags* are usually harmless but can be removed for cosmetic reasons.
73
# Define:
lipoma
A **benign tumor** made up of **fatty tissue** that typically grows slowly beneath the skin.
## Footnote
A *lipoma* is usually painless and may not require treatment unless it causes discomfort.
74
# Define:
keloid
A **thick, raised scar** that forms due to excessive collagen production during the healing process.
## Footnote
A *keloid* can develop after surgery or injury and may be treated with corticosteroids.
75
# Define:
hypertrophic scar
A **thickened scar** that remains within the boundaries of the original wound and may improve over time.
## Footnote
*Hypertrophic scars* are often red and raised but usually flatten with time.
76
# Define:
basal cell carcinoma
The **most common type of skin cancer**, arising from basal cells in the epidermis, often appearing as a pearly bump or sore that doesn't heal.
## Footnote
*Basal cell carcinoma* is generally slow-growing and rarely metastasizes.
77
# Define:
squamous cell carcinoma
A type of **skin cancer** that arises from **squamous cells in the epidermis**, often appearing as a firm, red nodule or a flat sore.
## Footnote
*Squamous cell carcinoma* can spread if not treated early.
78
# Define:
melanoma
A serious form of **skin cancer** that develops from **melanocytes**, characterized by changes in moles or new pigmented lesions.
## Footnote
*Melanoma* is the most dangerous type of skin cancer due to its potential to spread rapidly.
79
# Define:
actinic keratosis
A **rough, scaly patch** on sun-exposed skin, considered a precancerous condition that may develop into squamous cell carcinoma.
## Footnote
*Actinic keratosis* should be monitored and treated to prevent skin cancer.
80
# Define:
pruritus (itching)
An **unpleasant sensation on the skin** that causes the urge to scratch, often associated with various skin conditions.
## Footnote
*Pruritus* can be a symptom of eczema, allergies, or infections.
81
# Define:
erythema (redness)
**Redness of the skin** caused by increased blood flow to the area, often due to inflammation or irritation.
## Footnote
*Erythema* can occur after sunburn or an allergic reaction.
82
# Define:
edema (swelling)
The **accumulation of fluid in the tissues**, leading to swelling, which can occur in response to injury or inflammation.
## Footnote
*Edema* can be localized or generalized, depending on the underlying cause.
83
# Define:
macule
A **flat, distinct, discolored area of skin** that is usually less than 1 centimeter in diameter.
## Footnote
A *macule* may indicate a skin condition or be a normal variant.
84
# Define:
papule
A **small, raised bump on the skin**, typically less than 1 centimeter in diameter, often red or inflamed.
## Footnote
*Papules* can be a sign of acne, eczema, or other skin conditions.
85
# Define:
plaque
A **raised, flat area of skin** that is typically larger than 1 centimeter, often seen in conditions like psoriasis.
## Footnote
*Plaques* can be itchy and may vary in color and texture.
86
# Define:
nodule
A **solid, raised mass in the skin** that is larger than a papule, often deeper and may be felt under the skin.
## Footnote
A *nodule* can indicate a variety of conditions, including cysts or tumors.
87
# Define:
vesicle
A **small, fluid-filled blister** on the skin, usually less than 1 centimeter in diameter.
## Footnote
*Vesicles* can be caused by infections, allergic reactions, or friction.
88
# Define:
bulla
A **large fluid-filled blister** greater than 1 centimeter in diameter.
## Footnote
A *bulla* may occur due to burns, insect bites, or certain skin conditions.
89
# Define:
pustule
A **small, raised bump on the skin filled with pus**, often associated with infections or inflammatory conditions.
## Footnote
*Pustules* are commonly seen in acne and other skin infections.
90
# Define:
cyst
A **closed sac-like structure** beneath the skin that can be filled with fluid, pus, or other material.
## Footnote
A *cyst* can vary in size and may need to be drained if it becomes infected.
91
# Define:
crust (scab)
A **hard outer layer** formed by dried blood, pus, or serum on the surface of a wound or lesion.
## Footnote
A *crust* protects the underlying tissue as it heals.
92
# Define:
scale
A **thin flake or layer of skin** that often results from dryness or shedding of the outer layer.
## Footnote
*Scales* can be a sign of skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema.
93
# Define:
fissure
A **narrow, linear crack or break in the skin**, often painful and prone to infection.
## Footnote
A *fissure* can occur in areas of high friction, such as the hands or feet.
94
# Define:
ulcer
A **sore on the skin or mucous membrane** that fails to heal, often resulting from underlying disease or injury.
## Footnote
*Ulcers* can be chronic and require medical evaluation for treatment.
95
# Define:
lichenification
**Thickened, leathery skin** that develops from chronic scratching or irritation, often seen in eczema.
## Footnote
*Lichenification* indicates a prolonged inflammatory response in the skin.
96
# Define:
excoriation
The act of **scratching or scraping the skin**, often leading to damage or injury.
## Footnote
*Excoriation* can result from conditions such as pruritus or anxiety.
97
# Define:
petechiae
**Small, pinpoint red or purple spots** on the skin caused by bleeding under the skin.
## Footnote
*Petechiae* can indicate a variety of medical conditions, including clotting disorders.
98
# Define:
purpura
**Larger purple or red spots** on the skin caused by bleeding into the skin, often due to blood vessel damage.
## Footnote
*Purpura* can be a sign of serious underlying conditions and requires further investigation.
99
# Define:
ecchymosis (bruising)
A **discoloration of the skin** resulting from **bleeding underneath** due to trauma or injury.
## Footnote
*Ecchymosis* can vary in color as it heals, transitioning from purple to yellow.
100
# Define:
biopsy
A medical procedure that involves **removing a sample of tissue for examination** under a microscope to diagnose disease.
## Footnote
A *biopsy* is often performed to evaluate suspicious skin lesions.
101
# Define:
dermoscopy
A non-invasive diagnostic tool used to **examine skin lesions with a handheld device** that magnifies and illuminates the area.
## Footnote
*Dermoscopy* aids in the early detection of skin cancer.
102
# Define:
Wood’s lamp examination
A diagnostic technique that uses **ultraviolet light to detect certain skin conditions**, including fungal infections and pigmentation disorders.
## Footnote
*Wood’s lamp examination* can reveal changes in skin color and the presence of certain pathogens.
103
# Define:
patch test
A method used to **identify allergens** by **applying small amounts of substances to the skin** and observing for reactions.
## Footnote
A *patch test* is commonly used to diagnose contact dermatitis.
104
# Define:
culture and sensitivity
A laboratory test that **identifies the specific bacteria causing an infection** and determines which antibiotics are effective against it.
## Footnote
*Culture and sensitivity* tests are critical for guiding appropriate antibiotic therapy.
105
# Define:
cryotherapy
A treatment that involves **freezing abnormal tissue using liquid nitrogen to destroy it**, often used for warts and precancerous lesions.
## Footnote
*Cryotherapy* is a quick procedure that can effectively treat superficial skin conditions.
106
# Define:
electrocautery
A surgical technique that uses **electric current to cut tissue or destroy abnormal growths**, often used for skin lesions.
## Footnote
*Electrocautery* can minimize bleeding during procedures by sealing blood vessels.
107
# Define:
laser therapy
A treatment that uses **focused light energy to treat various skin conditions**, including scars, pigmentation, and hair removal.
## Footnote
*Laser therapy* can provide precise targeting and minimal damage to surrounding tissue.
108
# Define:
topical therapy
The application of **medications directly to the skin** to treat local conditions, such as creams, ointments, or gels.
## Footnote
*Topical therapy* is often the first line of treatment for skin disorders.
109
# Define:
systemic therapy
**Treatment** that affects the **entire body**, often through oral or injectable medications, used for widespread skin conditions.
## Footnote
*Systemic therapy* may be necessary for severe cases of psoriasis or eczema.
110
# Define:
antihistamines
Medications that **block the action of histamine**, used to relieve allergy symptoms such as itching and swelling.
## Footnote
*Antihistamines* can help manage allergic reactions and relieve symptoms of urticaria.
111
# Define:
corticosteroids
Anti-inflammatory medications used to **treat a variety of skin conditions** by reducing inflammation and itching.
## Footnote
*Topical corticosteroids* are commonly prescribed for eczema and psoriasis.
112
# Define:
immunomodulators
Medications that **modify the immune system's response**, often used in the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions.
## Footnote
*Immunomodulators* can be effective for conditions like eczema when corticosteroids are insufficient.
113
# Define:
antibiotics (topical and systemic)
Medications used to **treat bacterial infections of the skin**, available in topical forms or as oral/systemic treatments.
## Footnote
*Antibiotics* are essential in treating conditions like impetigo and cellulitis.
114
# Define:
antifungal agents
Medications used to **treat fungal infections of the skin**, available in topical or systemic forms.
## Footnote
*Antifungal agents* are crucial for treating conditions like athlete's foot and tinea.
115
# Define:
antiviral medications
Drugs used to **treat viral infections**, including those affecting the skin, such as herpes simplex and shingles.
## Footnote
*Antiviral medications* can help reduce the severity and duration of viral outbreaks.
116
# Define:
retinoids
**Vitamin A derivatives** used in the treatment of acne and other skin conditions, promoting cell turnover and preventing clogged pores.
## Footnote
*Retinoids* are effective in reducing acne and improving skin texture.
117
# Define:
emollients
**Moisturizing agents** that soothe and hydrate the skin, often used to treat dry skin conditions.
## Footnote
*Emollients* are essential for maintaining skin barrier function and preventing dryness.
118
# Define:
moisturizers
Products designed to **hydrate the skin** and prevent dryness by sealing in moisture.
## Footnote
*Moisturizers* are important for maintaining skin health, especially in dry climates.
119
# Define:
sunscreen (broad-spectrum SPF)
A topical product that **protects the skin from harmful UV radiation**, preventing sunburn and skin cancer.
## Footnote
Applying *sunscreen* daily is crucial for protecting the skin from UV damage.
