Integumentary System Terminology

Vocabulary flashcards covering the structures, epidermal layers, cell types, and functions of the integumentary system.

Keratinocytes

The most abundant epidermal cells, they function mainly to produce keratin.

Keratin

hard protein material found in the epidermis, hair, and nails

thin skin vs thick skin

Thin skin has 4 layers; thick skin has 5 layers.

stratum basale

the deepest layer of the epidermis consisting of stem cells capable of undergoing cell division to form new cells

Basal cells

Stem cells that dominate the stratum basale

Tactile disc

tactile cell with a sensory nerve ending- lacking hair

Stratum spinosum

"Spiny layer"- 8 to 10 layers keratinocytes bound together by desmosomes; contains cells that participate in immune response

stratum granulosum

a thin layer of cells in epidermis, contains keratin fibers and cells die

Stratum lucidum

a layer of the epidermis found only in the thick skin of the fingers, palms, and soles

Stratum corneum

outermost layer of the epidermis, which consists of flattened, keratinized cells

Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)

A peptide growth factor; Produced by salivary glands and duodenum; Used in laboratories to grow skin grafts

integumentary system

Largest system of the body; Composed of the cutaneous membrane (skin- epidermis, dermis); Hair, hair follicles, nails, exocrine glands; Blood vessels and sensory receptors; Subcutaneous layer (hypodermis)

functions of integumentary system

Protection, excretion, temperature regulation, melanin, production of keratin, synthesis of vitamin D, storage of lipids, coordination of the immune response

Epidermis

outermost layer of skin, stratified squamous epithelium, avascular

Dermis

Deeper layer of skin, located under the epidermis, contains the papillary layer and reticular layer