Integumentary System Overview

A collection of vocabulary terms and their definitions from the lecture on the Integumentary System, covering key concepts related to skin structure, function, and associated conditions.

Integumentary System

Consists of the skin and its accessory organs, including hair, nails, and cutaneous glands.

Dermatology

The scientific study and medical treatment of the integumentary system.

Keratinization

The process by which keratinocytes become filled with keratin and die, contributing to the protective outer layer of skin.

Melanocytes

Cells in the epidermis that produce melanin, a pigment responsible for skin color.

Homeostasis

The ability of the body to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

Epidermis

The outermost epithelial tissue layer of the skin, which is nonvascularized.

Dermis

The layer of skin beneath the epidermis that consists of fibrous connective tissue and is vascularized.

Hypodermis

Also known as superficial fascia, it is the layer deep to the dermis that mostly consists of adipose tissue.

Apocrine Glands

Sweat glands found in axillary and anogenital areas, larger than eccrine glands and empty into hair follicles.

Sebaceous Glands

Glands that secrete sebum into hair follicles to lubricate and soften hair and skin.

First Degree Burn

A burn that affects only the epidermis, causing redness and minor pain.

Second Degree Burn

A burn that affects the epidermis and the upper dermis, causing blisters and more severe pain.

Third Degree Burn

A burn that destroys the full thickness of the skin, resulting in a white or charred appearance.

Folic Acid

A vitamin that is essential for normal cell division and fetal development, which is broken down by ultraviolet radiation.

Vitamin D Synthesis

The process stimulated by ultraviolet radiation, necessary for dietary calcium absorption.

Eccrine Glands

Most numerous type of sweat glands, abundant on palms, soles, and forehead, important for temperature regulation.

Pacinian Corpuscles

Sensory receptors in the dermis that detect pressure and vibration.

Dendritic Cells

Cells in the epidermis that arise from the bone marrow and play a key role in activating the immune system.

Keratinocyte

The primary cell type in the epidermis that produces keratin.

Nonverbal Communication

A function of the integumentary system which includes the body's ability to communicate through visual signals such as skin color.

Stratum Corneum

The outermost layer of the epidermis composed of dead keratinized cells, providing protection against abrasion.