Dermis Layers and Structures

Vocabulary flashcards covering the anatomical features, layers, receptors, and blood supply of the papillary dermis and reticular dermis.

Papillary dermis

The more superficial dermal region composed of areolar connective tissue.

Dermal papillae

Fingerlike projections from the superior surface of the papillary dermis that attach it to the epidermis above.

Fingerprints

Unique patterns of epidermal ridges produced on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet that remain unchanged throughout life.

Tactile corpuscles

Touch receptors found in hairless skin within the papillary dermis.

Reticular dermis

The deepest skin layer, composed of dense irregular connective tissue and containing arteries, veins, sweat and sebaceous glands, and pressure receptors.

Lamellar corpuscles

Pressure receptors located within the reticular dermis.

Elastic fibers

Fibers in the dermis that give skin its exceptional elasticity in youth, which decrease in number in old age leading to wrinkling and inelasticity.

Deep dermal vascular plexus

A major component of the dermal blood supply located between the dermis and hypodermis.

Subpapillary plexus

A major component of the dermal blood supply located just deep to the dermal papillae.