Integumentary System Anatomy & Physiology

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and definitions related to the integumentary system anatomy and physiology.

Integumentary System

Covers the body and consists of skin and accessory tissues (nails, hair, sweat glands, sebaceous glands).

Epidermis

The outermost layer of skin composed of multiple strata of keratinocytes.

Keratinocytes

The primary cell type found in the epidermis, responsible for synthesizing keratin.

Melanocytes

Cells in the epidermis that produce and store melanin, a pigment that protects against UV radiation.

Tactile cells (Merkel cells)

Cells in the epidermis that are sensitive to touch and pressure.

Stratum basale

The deepest layer of the epidermis, where keratinocytes divide and regenerate.

Stratum spinosum

The layer of the epidermis where keratinocytes are connected by desmosomes and immune cells are found.

Stratum granulosum

A layer of the epidermis where keratinocytes begin keratinization and eventually die.

Stratum lucidum

A thin, translucent layer of the epidermis found only in thick skin.

Stratum corneum

The outermost layer of the epidermis, composed of dead, keratinized cells providing a protective barrier.

Dermis

The layer of skin located beneath the epidermis, containing connective tissue, blood vessels, glands, and hair follicles.

Papillary layer

The uppermost layer of the dermis that interlocks with the epidermis to form dermal papillae.

Reticular layer

The deeper and thicker layer of the dermis comprised of dense irregular connective tissue.

Hypodermis

The subcutaneous layer beneath the skin composed of areolar and adipose tissue, not part of the integument.

Sebaceous glands

Holocrine glands that produce sebum, an oily substance that lubricates skin and hair.

Sweat glands

Glands that produce sweat; includes merocrine (eccrine) and apocrine glands.

Keratinization

The process where keratinocytes fill with keratin, lose their nuclei, and die to form a protective layer.

Melanin

The pigment produced by melanocytes that gives skin its color and protects against UV radiation.

Dendritic cells

Immune cells found in the epidermis and dermis that help initiate immune responses.

Acne

A skin condition caused by blocked sebaceous glands, often associated with puberty.

Psoriasis

A chronic autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell growth, resulting in scaly patches.

Burns

Injuries to the skin caused by heat, chemicals, or radiation; treatments include managing fluid loss and controlling infection.

What are the primary functions of the integumentary system?

Protection against environmental damage, regulation of body temperature, sensation, and excretion.

What type of cells within the stratum spinosum are part of the immune system?

Dendritic cells (Langerhans cells).

What is the primary role of keratin in epidermal cells?

To provide structural strength and water resistance to the skin.

Name two structures commonly found within the dermal papillae.

Capillary loops and tactile (Meissner's) corpuscles (nerve endings).

What is the primary function of merocrine (eccrine) sweat glands?

Thermoregulation, by producing sweat to cool the body.

Besides lubrication, what other protective role does sebum play?

It helps prevent water loss and has mild antibacterial properties.

What factors primarily determine skin color?

The amount and type (eumelanin or pheomelanin) of melanin produced by melanocytes, as well as carotene and hemoglobin.

Why is water/fluid loss a major concern in burn injuries?

Burns compromise the skin's protective barrier, leading to significant evaporation and fluid loss from the body.