Dermatology

chapter 32

basal

Bottom layer.

benign

A noncancerous condition; not malignant, harmless.

bilirubin

A reddish pigment that results from the breakdown of red blood cells in the liver.

collagen (KAH lah jen)

The most abundant structural protein found in skin and other connective tissues. It provides strength and cushioning to many parts of the body.

cryosurgery

The technique of exposing tissue to extreme cold to produce a well-defined area of cell destruction.

ecchymosis (ek i MOH sis)

Discoloration of the skin caused by the escape of blood into the tissues from ruptured blood vessels; typically caused by bruising.

elastin (ee LAS tin)

A highly elastic protein in connective tissue that allows tissues to resume their shape after stretching or contracting. It is found abundantly in the dermis of the skin.

epithelial cells (ep i THEE lee al) strongly stick to each other.

Form cellular sheets that cover surfaces, both inside and outside the body. Epithelial cells are closely packed, take on different shapes, and