Marieb Human Anatomy & Physiology - Chapter 05: The Integumentary System

A series of vocabulary flashcards relevant to the integumentary system as covered in Chapter 05 of Marieb Human Anatomy & Physiology.

Integumentary System

System consisting of the skin, glands, hair, nails, and subcutaneous tissue that protects the body and regulates various functions.

Epidermis

The outermost protective layer of skin, consisting mostly of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium.

Dermis

The layer of skin beneath the epidermis that makes up the bulk of the skin, consisting mainly of dense connective tissue.

Subcutaneous tissue

Also called hypodermis; the layer beneath the dermis that anchors skin to underlying structures and provides insulation.

Keratinocytes

Major epidermal cells that produce keratin, a protein that gives skin its protective properties.

Melanocytes

Cells located in the deepest epidermis that produce melanin, which provides pigment and protects against UV damage.

Dendritic cells

Star-shaped macrophages in the epidermis that help activate the immune system by ingesting foreign substances.

Tactile epithelial cells

Sensory receptors located at the junction of the epidermis and dermis that are responsible for touch.

Stratum corneum

The outermost layer of the epidermis, composed of 20-30 rows of dead, keratinized cells.

Sebaceous glands

Oil glands that secrete sebum, lubricating hair and skin, and providing antibacterial properties.

Eccrine sweat glands

The most numerous type of sweat glands that produce a watery sweat to help regulate body temperature.

Apocrine sweat glands

Sweat glands located in specific areas like the axillary region that secrete a thicker, fat-containing sweat.

Basal cell carcinoma

The most common and least malignant form of skin cancer arising from stratum basale cells.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Second most common skin cancer involving keratinocytes of stratum spinosum that can metastasize.

Melanoma

The most dangerous type of skin cancer, originating from melanocytes and known for its aggressive characteristics.

Rule of Nines

A method for assessing the percentage of body surface area affected by burns to evaluate fluid loss.

Homeostatic Imbalance

Condition in which normal body conditions are disturbed, such as in the case of extreme skin stretching leading to striae.

Vernix caseosa

A white substance produced by sebaceous glands that protects the skin of the fetus in the amniotic fluid.

Aging skin

Skin that becomes thin, dry, and more susceptible to damage due to a decrease in sebaceous gland activity and subcutaneous fat.