HA Quiz - Integumentary System

Functions of the Integumentary System

Protection, Regulation, Sensation

Describe protection (How does it protect?)

• Tightly interlocked cells of the skin protect underlying tissues from pathogens, abrasion, heat & chemicals

• Fats released inhibit evaporation of water, guarding against dehydration, and prevent excess absorption (shower)

• Release oils containing bactericidal chemicals, kill surface bacteria

• Pigment helps shield against damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) light

Describe regulation (How does it regulate?)

Thermoregulation (Body temperature)

• Sweat glands: Sweat produced, released to skin’s surface, and evaporates to reduce body temperature

• Blood vessels: 5% blood stored in skin, up to 25% typically circulating in skin (Vasodilation, Vasoconstriction)

• Goosebumps Hair creates barrier > warmth

Excretion & Absorption

• Sweat excretion: Excretes small amounts of salts, carbon dioxide, ammonia and urea (from breakdown of proteins)

• Lipid-soluble absorption: Topical treatments (applied to skin) Toxic substances (Heavy metals (lead, arsenic, Poison Ivy, Poison Oak), Vitamins (A, D, E, K)

Vasodilation

blood vessels widen, more blood flow, more heat lost

Vasoconstriction

blood vessels become narrower, less blood flow, less heat lost

Vitamin D synthesis

requires UV light (10-15 minutes, at least twice a week) 

Describe sensation (How does it have sensation?)

Cutaneous Sensations (sensations that arise from the skin)

Tactile sensations (Touch, Pressure, Vibration,Tickle)

Thermal sensations (Warmth, Coolness)

Pain (Indication of impending or existing tissue damage)

Indication of Homeostasis

Cyanosis - (blue skin) heart failure, poor circulation, severe respiratory issues

Jaundice - (yellow skin) liver disorder or failure

Erythema - (red skin) fever, inflammation, allergy… or just blushing

Organization of the Integumentary System

Skin is organized by its layers and is categorized into two types: Thin skin and thick skin

Thin Skin

• Located on all parts of the body except palms, digits, and soles

• 4 layers

• Hair follicles

• Oil glands

• Fewer sweat glands

• Fewer sensory receptors

Thick Skin

• Located on palms, digits, and soles

• 5 layers

• No hair follicles

• No oil glands

• More sweat glands

• More sensory receptors

Structure of Skin

The structure of skin can be divided into 3 layers:

Epidermis (Most superficial, Protection)

Dermis (Largest, central Protection, Regulation & Sensation)

Hypodermis (subcutaneous) (Deepest, Protection & Regulation)