Chapter_5_Integumentary

Integumentary system

The organ system that includes skin, hair, nails, and associated glands and receptors.

Stratified epidermis

A multi-layered structure of the skin that provides protection from abrasions and environmental damage.

Keratin

A protein produced by keratinocytes that waterproofs the skin and protects against heat, microbes, and chemicals.

Melanin

A pigment produced by melanocytes that contributes to skin color and protects against UV radiation.

WBC in dermis

White blood cells located in the dermis that contribute to the immune response.

Sebaceous gland

Gland in the skin that secretes sebum, which moistens and waterproofs the skin.

Eccrine sweat glands

Sweat glands located all over the body, primarily involved in regulating body temperature.

Apocrine sweat glands

Sweat glands concentrated in specific areas, such as the axilla, and become active at puberty.

Hypodermis

Also known as the subcutaneous layer, it anchors the skin to underlying structures and contains adipose tissue.

Nail matrix

The tissue under the base of the nail that is responsible for nail growth.

Jaundice

A yellowish skin color caused by the buildup of bilirubin in the blood.

Cyanosis

Bluish coloration of the skin and nails due to inadequate oxygen circulation.

Erythema

Redness of the skin resulting from dilated blood capillaries during inflammation or injury.

Stratum corneum

The outermost layer of the epidermis, composed of dead, keratinized cells.

Langerhans cells

Immune cells in the epidermis that act as macrophages to engulf pathogens.

Merkel cells

Specialized cells in the epidermis that function as touch receptors.

Hair follicle

A small tubular cavity in the skin where hair develops.

Arrector pili

Small smooth muscles that attach to hair follicles and cause hairs to stand up, creating 'goosebumps'.

Skin wound healing

The process through which the skin repairs itself after injury, involving different phases such as inflammatory and proliferative phases.

Basal cell carcinoma

A common type of skin cancer that rarely metastasizes, arising from basal cells in the epidermis.

Malignant melanoma

A life-threatening form of skin cancer that arises from melanocytes and can metastasize rapidly.

Keratinocytes

The predominant cell type in the epidermis that produces keratin.

Dermal papillae

Small, finger-like projections in the dermis that increase the surface area for better nutrient exchange with the epidermis.

Thick skin

Skin that has five layers of epidermis, found on the palms and soles.

Thin skin

Skin that has four layers of epidermis, covering most of the body.

Acne

A bacterial inflammation of sebaceous glands, often characterized by pimples.

Homeostatic function of skin

Includes protection, temperature regulation, sensation, excretion, and synthesis of vitamin D.