Wound care skin anatomy

what is the most common cell of the epidermis?

Keratinocytes

What are the cells of the epidermis?

keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans and Merkle cells

Melanin serves as what protection?

UV radiation absorption

Transepidermal water loss (TEWL)

water lost through skin under non-sweating conditions

• Dark skin contains more fibroblasts that are larger than those in white people this results in what?

heightened risk for keloids

hypertrophic scar formation (more raised and thickened scars)

who has higher TEWL compared to white people?

Blacks and Aisians

subcutaneous tissue

loose connective tissue below the dermis.

Binds skin to tissue

characteristics of subcutaneous tissue?

pale yellow, waxy , globular, oily and glistens

Bones contain what percent of the bodies calcium?

99%

Red Blood Cell lab range normal

Normal Range: 

• Male: 4.7-6.1 million cells/microliter (µL)

• Female: 4.2-5.4 million cells/µL 

Hemosiderin staining

capillaries leak hemoglobin into the extracellular space . Iron stains purple on the skin

Pitting edema

indentation on the skin when finger is firmly pressed for 5 seconds

pitting vs non pitting edema

How can you distinguish ligaments from tendons?

Ligaments are broader, flatter, and more loosely woven than tendons and the striations feel like tape with embedded threads.

What causes dark skin to be thicker compared to light skin?

The presence of more compact collagen bundles in higher amounts and a longer BMZ

What is the function of the fibroblast?

Develop connective tissue and produce collagen and elastin

What effect does a higher TEWL in dark skin have?

Compromises the epidermal barrier function making the skin more susceptible to irritants and possibly drier

What is the largest component of the dermis and what is its function?

Extracellular matrix Provides structural support, regulates cellular functions, lubricates cells, and provides a transport system for nutrients and waste products

What is the function of subcutaneous tissue?

Stores energy, supports blood vessels and nerves, cushions the body, and protects against cold

Protection from UV rays

What is the function of melatin