Eve Piazza - Integumentary System Study Guide

Integumentary System

The organ system that includes the skin, hair, nails, and associated glands, serving as a protective barrier and involved in regulation and sensation.

Epidermis

The outermost layer of skin, primarily composed of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium.

Dermis

The layer of skin beneath the epidermis that contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves.

Subcutaneous Layer

A layer of fat and connective tissue beneath the dermis that insulates the body and absorbs shock.

Keratinocytes

The primary cell type in the epidermis that produces keratin, a protein vital for skin protection.

Melanocytes

Cells found in the epidermis responsible for the production of melanin, which gives skin its color and protects against UV radiation.

Sebaceous Glands

Glands in the skin that secrete sebum, an oily substance that helps to keep the skin moist and protects it.

Sweat Glands

Glands responsible for producing sweat, which helps regulate body temperature and remove waste.

Hair Follicles

Structures in the dermis that produce hair, involved in sensation and protection.

Nails

Hard protective coverings on the tips of fingers and toes, composed of keratin.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment in the body, which the integumentary system helps regulate.

Sensory Receptors

Nerve endings in the skin that detect changes in the environment and send signals to the nervous system.

UV Radiation

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun that can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Acne

A common skin condition characterized by the formation of pimples, usually caused by clogged sebaceous glands.

Psoriasis

A chronic autoimmune condition that leads to the rapid buildup of skin cells, resulting in scaling and inflammation.

Eczema

A condition that causes inflamed, itchy, and red skin, often due to an allergic reaction or environmental factors.

Integumentary System

The organ system that includes the skin, hair, nails, and associated glands, serving as a protective barrier and involved in regulation and sensation.

Epidermis

The outermost layer of skin, primarily composed of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium.

Dermis

The layer of skin beneath the epidermis that contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves.

Subcutaneous Layer

A layer of fat and connective tissue beneath the dermis that insulates the body and absorbs shock.

Keratinocytes

The primary cell type in the epidermis that produces keratin, a protein vital for skin protection.

Melanocytes

Cells found in the epidermis responsible for the production of melanin, which gives skin its color and protects against UV radiation.

Sebaceous Glands

Glands in the skin that secrete sebum, an oily substance that helps to keep the skin moist and protects it.

Sweat Glands

Glands responsible for producing sweat, which helps regulate body temperature and remove waste.

Hair Follicles

Structures in the dermis that produce hair, involved in sensation and protection.

Nails

Hard protective coverings on the tips of fingers and toes, composed of keratin.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment in the body, which the integumentary system helps regulate.

Sensory Receptors

Nerve endings in the skin that detect changes in the environment and send signals to the nervous system.

UV Radiation

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun that can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Acne

A common skin condition characterized by the formation of pimples, usually caused by clogged sebaceous glands.

Psoriasis

A chronic autoimmune condition that leads to the rapid buildup of skin cells, resulting in scaling and inflammation.

Eczema

A condition that causes inflamed, itchy, and red skin, often due to an allergic reaction or environmental factors.

What are the three general layers of the skin?

The epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis (subcutaneous layer).

Where is thick skin primarily found, and what distinguishes it from thin skin?

Thick skin is found on the palms of hands and soles of feet; it contains an extra epidermal layer (stratum lucidum) and lacks hair follicles or sebaceous glands.

Name the two primary layers of the dermis.

The papillary layer and the reticular layer.

What is the primary tissue composition and function of the hypodermis?

Primarily adipose (fat) tissue and areolar connective tissue; it provides insulation, shock absorption, and energy storage.

Beyond sensation and protection, what other functions does hair provide?

Hair aids in thermal insulation and shields the body from UV radiation.

What is the primary function of nails on fingers and toes?

They protect the distal ends of digits and enhance grip, touch sensitivity, and manipulative dexterity.

What are the two major classifications of sweat glands?

Eccrine (merocrine) glands, which are widespread for thermoregulation, and apocrine glands, found in axillary and anogenital areas, associated with odor.

What three pigments primarily determine human skin color?

Melanin (brown/black