Week 5: Overview of Integumentary System

Integumentary System

The organ system that includes the skin, hair, nails, and glands and is responsible for protecting the body from external damage.

Epidermis

The outermost layer of skin, composed of dead keratinized squamous epithelium.

Dermis

The layer of skin beneath the epidermis, composed of connective and vascular tissue.

Hypodermis

The subcutaneous layer beneath the dermis that connects skin to underlying tissues and functions in fat storage and insulation.

Keratinocytes

Cells in the epidermis that produce keratin, a protein that strengthens the skin.

Melanocytes

Pigment-producing cells in the stratum basale that create melanin, which determines skin color.

Stratum Basale

The deepest layer of the epidermis, containing undifferentiated stem cells and melanocytes.

Stratum Corneum

The most superficial layer of the epidermis, composed of dead keratinized cells.

Thermoregulation

The process by which the body maintains its internal temperature by adjusting blood flow and sweat production.

Acid Mantle

An acidic film on the surface of the skin that helps protect against pathogens and maintains skin pH.

UV Radiation

Ultraviolet light from the sun that can damage skin cells and lead to skin cancer.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

The least aggressive form of skin cancer arising from abnormal growth of basal cells in the stratum basale.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A type of skin cancer arising from malignant keratinocytes in the stratum granulosum.

Melanoma

The most aggressive type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes.

Transdermal Medications

Medications that are administered through the skin for absorption into the bloodstream.

Epidermal Ridges

Unique patterns on the skin surface formed by the dermal papillae, creating fingerprints.

Pheomelanin

A type of melanin that produces reddish-brown pigmentation in the skin.

Eumelanin

A type of melanin that produces brownish-black pigmentation in the skin.

Thermoreceptors

Nerve endings in the skin that respond to changes in temperature.

Antimicrobial Peptides

Substances produced in the skin that help control the population of bacteria on the skin surface.