The Integument System TEST 3

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the Integument System, including its structure, functions, and related abnormalities.

Integument

The skin; the largest organ of the body.

Epidermis

The superficial layer of stratified squamous epithelium.

Dermis

The deeper layer of areolar and dense irregular connective tissues.

Hypodermis

Also known as the subcutaneous layer; lies under the dermis and is composed mostly of adipose tissue.

Keratinocytes

The most abundant cells in the epidermis that produce keratin, providing protection and waterproofing.

Melanocytes

Cells that produce melanin, the pigment that absorbs UV light to prevent DNA damage.

Stratum basale

The deepest layer of the epidermis that contains cells capable of mitosis.

Stratum corneum

The most superficial layer of the epidermis, comprised solely of dead keratinocytes.

Papillary layer

The superficial region of the dermis composed of areolar connective tissue.

Reticular layer

The deeper layer of the dermis, comprised mainly of dense irregular connective tissue.

Sweat glands

Exocrine glands that produce sweat; classified into merocrine and apocrine glands.

Sebaceous glands

Glands that secrete oily sebum, preventing drying of hair and skin.

Friction ridges

Folds of the epidermis and dermis on fingers, palms, soles, and toes that increase friction.

Lines of cleavage

Lines in the skin along which collagen fibers are oriented; important for surgical incisions.

Albinism

A genetic condition characterized by a lack of melanin production, resulting in pale skin and hair.

Variations in skin color

Skin color can be affected by three pigments: hemoglobin, melanin, and carotene.

Stretch marks

Striae formed when collagen fibers tear due to overstretching of the skin.

Three types of hair

Lanugo (fine hair), vellus (short, fine hair), and terminal hair (thicker, pigmented hair).

Functions of hair

Include protection, heat retention, sensory reception, visual identification, and chemical signal dispersal.

Papilla of the hair

A structure at the base of the hair bulb that supplies nutrients to the hair follicle.

Nails

Scalelike modifications of the stratum corneum that protect the tips of fingers and toes.

Epidermal dendritic cells

Immune cells found in the skin that help protect against infection.

Melanin production

Melanin is produced by melanocytes and is crucial for skin pigmentation.