Integumentary System - Epidermis

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on the anatomy of the integumentary system, specifically focusing on the epidermis and its layers.

Epidermis

The outermost skin layer that protects and waterproofs the interior body.

Dermis

The deep skin layer containing nerves, blood vessels, oil and sweat glands.

Hypodermis

Connective tissue that anchors skin to the body; technically not classified as skin.

Avascular

Refers to the epidermis as having no blood vessels extending into it.

Stratum Basale

The basal layer of the epidermis primarily composed of stem cells that divide to form new skin cells.

Keratinocytes

Cells in the epidermis that are filled with keratin; most are dead.

Melanocytes

Cells found in the basal layer that produce melanin, affecting skin tone.

Dendritic Cells (Langerhans Cells)

Cells in the epidermis that serve an immune function and can initiate an immune response.

Stratum Corneum

The outermost layer of the epidermis, comprised of dead cells filled with keratin.

Exfoliation

The process by which dead skin cells are sloughed off the surface of the skin.

Merkel Cells

Cells in the basal layer connected to sensory nerve endings that sense pressure.

Mitosis

The process by which stem cells in the epidermis divide to produce new skin cells.

Cornified Cells

Dead cells in the stratum corneum that are filled with keratin.