Integumentary System Anatomy & Physiology

These flashcards cover vocabulary related to the anatomy and physiology of the integumentary system, providing definitions to aid in understanding key concepts for exam preparation.

Integumentary System

The organ system that covers the body and consists of skin and accessory tissues (nails, hair, sweat glands, sebaceous glands).

Dermatology

The study of skin.

Epidermis

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

Keratinocytes

The primary cell type in the epidermis that produces keratin, a protein that strengthens the epidermis.

Melanocytes

Cells found in the stratum basale that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color.

Tactile Cells (Merkel Cells)

Cells in the epidermis that are sensitive to touch and help in the sensory perception.

Stratum Basale

The deepest layer of the epidermis consisting of a single layer of cuboidal to low columnar cells.

Stratum Spinosum

The layer of the epidermis above the stratum basale where keratinocytes are connected by desmosomes.

Stratum Granulosum

A layer of the epidermis where keratinocytes begin the process of keratinization.

Stratum Lucidum

A translucent layer found only in thick skin on the palms and soles.

Stratum Corneum

The outermost layer of the epidermis composed of dead, keratinized cells.

Thick Skin

Skin that contains all five layers of epidural strata, found on palms of hands and soles of feet.

Thin Skin

Skin that covers most of the body and lacks a stratum lucidum.

Hemoglobin

An oxygen-binding protein in red blood cells that contributes to skin color.

Carotene

A yellow-orange pigment acquired from some vegetables that can influence skin color.

Nevus (Mole)

A localized overgrowth of melanocytes.

Freckles

Localized areas of increased melanocyte activity resulting in yellowish or brown spots.

Hemangiomas

Skin discolorations due to benign blood vessel tumors.

Friction Ridges

Large folds and valleys in the dermis and epidermis responsible for fingerprints.

UV Radiation

Radiation from the sun that includes UVA and UVB rays, both harmful to the skin.

Sebaceous Glands

Glands that produce sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin and hair.

Merocrine Sweat Glands

Sweat glands that are most numerous and produce a watery secretion for thermoregulation.

Apocrine Sweat Glands

Glands that discharge secretions into hair follicles and contribute to body odor.

Subcutaneous Layer (Hypodermis)

Layer beneath the dermis, not part of the integument, containing areolar and adipose connective tissues.

Collagen

A protein that provides strength and elasticity to the skin.

Elastic Fibers

Fibers in the skin that help maintain its elasticity.

Alopecia Areata

An autoimmune disorder that causes spots of baldness due to the attack on hair follicles.

Eczema

An inflammatory condition of the skin characterized by itchiness and redness.

Psoriasis

A chronic autoimmune skin disease characterized by rapid overgrowth of skin cells.

Granulation Tissue

New connective tissue formed during wound healing.

Keratinization

The process through which keratinocytes fill with keratin and build the protective outer layer of skin.

Lunula

The whitish semilunar area at the proximal end of the nail body.

Hair Follicle

The oblique tube surrounding the hair root; site of hair growth.

Apocrine Secretion

Viscous cloudy excretions produced by apocrine glands; associated with odor when acted upon by bacteria.

Sebum

An oily substance produced by sebaceous glands that lubricates the skin and hair.

Cuticle

The narrow band of epidermis extending from the margin of the nail wall onto the nail body.

Vitamin D Synthesis

The process of forming vitamin D from skin exposure to UV light.

Hypodermis

Another term for the subcutaneous layer beneath the dermis.

Arrector Pili

Small muscles attached to hair follicles that cause hair to stand up when contracted.

Hypodermic Injection Site

Common site for drug injections; includes the subcutaneous layer.

Adipose Tissue

Connective tissue that provides energy storage, cushioning, and insulation.

Acne

A skin condition resulting from plugged sebaceous ducts, often beginning during puberty.

Thermoregulation

The process of maintaining a stable internal body temperature.

Keratin

The key structural material making up the outer layer of human skin.

Dendritic Cells

Immune cells located in the epidermis and dermis capable of initiating an immune response.

Skin Regeneration

The process of replacing damaged skin cells with the same cell type.

Fibrosis

The formation of scar tissue following injury that does not restore functional activities.

Blood Clot Formation

The first stage of wound healing, providing a temporary barrier against pathogens.

Skin Aging

Changes in skin associated with aging, including reduced elasticity and increased fragility.