CHPT 7

Epithelial membranes

Membranes composed of epithelial tissue and an underlying layer of connective tissue.

Connective tissue membranes

Membranes composed exclusively of various types of connective tissue.

Cutaneous membrane

Another term for skin; the outer layer of the body.

Mucous membranes

Membranes that line body surfaces opening directly to the exterior, producing mucus.

Serous membranes

Membranes consisting of simple squamous epithelium on a connective tissue basement membrane, covering body organs.

Parietal layer

The part of serous membranes that lines the walls of body cavities.

Visceral layer

The part of serous membranes that covers organs found within body cavities.

Pleurisy

Inflammation of the serous membranes that line the chest cavity and cover the lungs.

Peritonitis

Inflammation of the serous membranes in the abdominal cavity.

Stratum germinativum

The innermost layer of the epidermis responsible for the production of new skin cells.

Stratum corneum

The outermost layer of the epidermis consisting of keratin-filled cells.

Melanocytes

Cells in the stratum germinativum that produce the pigment melanin.

Keratin

A tough, waterproof protein that fills skin cells as they move towards the surface.

Dermal-epidermal junction

The area of contact between the epidermis and dermis, providing structural support.

Dermis

The deeper layer of skin composed largely of connective tissue, containing blood vessels, nerve endings, and glands.

Alopecia

Hair loss, which can be caused by various factors including genetics.

Sebaceous glands

Glands that secrete oil (sebum) for hair and skin, often increasing during adolescence.

Eccrine sweat glands

The most numerous and widespread sweat glands that regulate body temperature.

Apocrine sweat glands

Glands located primarily in the axilla and around genitalia that secrete a thicker fluid.

Psoriasis

A chronic inflammatory condition characterized by scaly plaques on the skin.

Melanoma

The most serious type of skin cancer originating in melanocytes.

Acne vulgaris

Inflammation of sebaceous gland ducts leading to pimples and other lesions.

Vitiligo

A condition producing patchy light skin areas due to loss of melanocytes.

Synovial membranes

Membranes that line joints and secrete synovial fluid for lubrication.

Striae

Stretch marks resulting from overstretching of the skin.

Blood vessels

Veins and arteries within the dermis that supply the skin with nutrients and oxygen.