Integumentary System Quiz Vocabulary(Kendall)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms, layers of the epidermis, types of glands, and skin pathologies for the upcoming integumentary system quiz.

Alopecia

Thinning or loss of hair.

Apoptosis

Genetically programmed cell death.

Arrector pili

Smooth muscles whose contractions force hairs to stand erect.

Basal cell carcinoma

Common form of skin cancer that appears on sun-exposed surfaces.

Cuticle (Eponychium)

Narrow band of epidermis extending from the margin of the nail wall onto the nail body.

Debridement

Medical removal of dead, damaged, infected skin.

Dermis

Underlying connective tissue layer of the skin.

Epidermis

Superficial region of the skin; contains layers of stratified squamous keratinized epithelium.

Hair

Appendage of the skin.

Keratinocytes

Cells that make up most of the epidermal cells.

Melanin

Dark pigment produced in melanocytes and transferred to keratinocytes.

Melanoma

Serious skin cancer that can metastasize to other organs if not caught.

Sebaceous glands

A type of cutaneous gland (oil glands) found everywhere except hands and feet; makes sebum; ducts usually empty onto hair, but some go onto the skin.

Stratum basale

Deepest layer consisting of a single row of actively dividing keratinocytes; melanocytes and Merkel cells are found in it.

Stratum corneum

Top layer of dead keratinocytes with a dry, flaky appearance; typically appears dark purple or hot pink.

Stratum granulosum

3rd layer where superficial keratinocytes are dead but deeper cells are alive; helps keep the skin water resistant.

Stratum lucidum

Single layer of translucent, dead keratinocytes found only in the palms and soles of feet.

Stratum spinosum

Second deepest layer; first actively metabolizing cells and melanin are found here.

Sweat glands

A type of cutaneous exocrine gland found everywhere; pores are the outlets; divided into eccrine and apocrine types.

Eccrine glands

Sweat glands located all over the body that produce clear perspiration consisting primarily of water, salts, and urea.

Apocrine glands

Sweat glands found in axillary and genital areas; secrete a milky protein-and-fat rich substance that serves as an excellent nutrient source for skin bacteria; contains pheromones (a chemical sign of sexual maturity).