Skin and Body Membranes (Integumentary System)

This set of flashcards covers key concepts, terms, and definitions related to the integumentary system, specifically skin and body membranes.

Epithelial Membranes

Membranes that line body cavities and surfaces and include mucous, cutaneous, and serous membranes.

Mucous Membrane

Type of epithelial membrane that lines cavities open to the external environment, including digestive and respiratory tracts.

Cutaneous Membrane

Stratified squamous epithelial membrane that is exposed to the external environment, providing protection from desiccation and pathogens.

Serous Membrane

Lines cavities that do not open to the outside and covers internal organs, secreting serous fluid for lubrication.

Connective Tissue Membrane

Membrane formed solely from connective tissue, which encapsulates organs and lines movable joints.

Synovial Membrane

Connective tissue membrane that lines the cavity of a freely movable joint, providing lubrication.

Integumentary System

System that includes the skin and its derivatives; protects, regulates temperature, and provides sensation.

Epidermis

Outermost layer of skin composed of stratified squamous epithelium; has no blood vessels.

Dermis

Layer of skin beneath the epidermis made of dense connective tissue, containing blood vessels and sensory receptors.

Subcutaneous Tissue (Hypodermis)

Layer composed mainly of adipose tissue that anchors skin to underlying organs and provides insulation.

Keratinocytes

Cells in the epidermis that produce keratin, a protein that provides toughness and waterproofing.

Melanin

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

Sebaceous Glands

Oil glands found in skin that release sebum for lubrication, except in palms and soles.

Eccrine Glands

Sweat glands found all over the body, producing a clear secretion that helps regulate temperature.

Apocrine Glands

Sweat glands located in axillary and genital areas, producing a thicker secretion into hair follicles.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Least malignant skin cancer arising from altered stratum basale cells; slow-growing and rarely metastatic.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Skin cancer arising from stratum spinosum cells; appears as scaly lesions and is sun-induced.

Malignant Melanoma

Serious form of skin cancer developing from melanocytes, characterized by rapid growth and the ABCD rule for detection.

ABCD Rule

Criteria for detecting malignant melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than 6 mm.