The Integumentary System

These flashcards cover key concepts, terminology, and functions related to the integumentary system as outlined in the lecture notes.

What are the two primary layers of the skin?

The epidermis and the dermis.

What layer lies beneath the dermis and is not considered part of the integumentary system?

Hypodermis (subcutaneous layer).

What is the average size of the skin in an adult?

Approximately 1.6 to 1.9 m².

What are the four cell types found in the epidermis?

Keratinocytes, melanocytes, dendritic (Langerhans) cells, and tactile (Merkel) cells.

What is the function of melanocytes in the skin?

They produce the pigment melanin, which protects the nucleus of keratinocytes from UV damage.

What is keratinization and where does it begin?

Keratinization is the process where cells flatten and fill with keratohyaline granules, and it begins in the stratum granulosum.

What are fingerprints and how are they formed?

Fingerprints are formed by friction ridges created by dermal papillae in thick skin.

What type of sweat gland is most numerous and plays a key role in thermoregulation?

Eccrine sweat glands.

What is the primary pigment responsible for skin color?

Melanin.

What skin condition is characterized by low oxygenation leading to blue skin color?

Cyanosis.

What are the two types of hair and how do they differ?

Vellus hair (fine, pale hair) and terminal hair (coarse, long hair found in specific areas).

What is the primary function of sebaceous glands?

To secrete sebum, which softens hair and skin.

What are striae and what causes them?

Striae are silvery-white scars (stretch marks) caused by extreme stretching leading to dermal tears.

What is the role of the dermis in temperature regulation?

The rich vascular supply in the dermis plays a critical role in regulating body temperature.

Describe the function of the arrector pili muscles.

They are smooth muscles attached to hair follicles that cause 'goosebumps' when contracted.

What happens to skin aging and hair as individuals grow older?

Hair thinning occurs and true baldness can develop due to hormonal changes.