Integumentary and Skeletal Systems Study Guide

Epidermis

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

Stratum Corneum

The outermost layer of the epidermis providing a barrier to water loss.

Stratum Lucidum

A layer present only in thick skin, offering additional protection.

Stratum Granulosum

Layer where keratinocytes start losing their nuclei and flattening for durability.

Stratum Spinosum

Layer providing strength and flexibility, with interconnected cells.

Stratum Basale

The deepest layer of the epidermis where mitosis occurs to produce new skin cells.

Dermis

The thicker layer of skin underneath the epidermis composed of connective tissue.

Papillary Layer

The upper layer of the dermis containing blood vessels and sensory neurons.

Reticular Layer

The thicker layer of the dermis made of dense irregular connective tissue.

Melanin

A pigment produced by melanocytes that influences skin color.

Sebaceous Glands

Glands that secrete sebum to lubricate skin and hair.

Eccrine Sweat Glands

Glands found all over the body that help regulate temperature.

Apocrine Sweat Glands

Glands located in axillary and genital areas, active during puberty.

Hair Bulb

The base of the hair follicle where hair growth occurs.

Hair Papilla

A small structure with blood vessels that supplies nutrients to the hair.

Arrector Pili Muscle

A muscle that causes hair to stand up, producing goosebumps.

Nail Plate

The hard, visible part of the nail that protects fingertip.

Nail Bed

The skin beneath the nail plate, rich in blood vessels.

First Degree Burn

A burn affecting only the epidermis, causing redness and pain without blisters.

Second Degree Burn

A burn affecting both the epidermis and dermis, causing blisters and swelling.

Third Degree Burn

A burn involving all layers of skin, causing charred skin and possible nerve damage.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

The most common type of skin cancer arising from basal cells.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A type of skin cancer arising from squamous cells, more aggressive than basal.

Melanoma

The most deadly form of skin cancer developing from melanocytes.

Compact Bone

Dense outer layer of bone providing strength and support.

Spongy Bone

Less dense bone found mainly at the ends of long bones housing marrow.

Hyaline Cartilage

The most common type of cartilage, providing smooth surfaces for joints.

Elastic Cartilage

Cartilage found in areas requiring flexibility, like the ear.

Fibrocartilage

Cartilage providing tensile strength, found in intervertebral discs.

Axial Skeleton

The part of the skeleton comprising the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage.

Appendicular Skeleton

The part of the skeleton consisting of limbs and girdles used for movement.

Long Bones

Bones whose length is greater than their width, like the femur.

Short Bones

Bones approximately equal in length and width, like carpals.

Flat Bones

Bones that are thin and flat, like skull bones.

Irregular Bones

Bones with complex shapes that don't fit other categories, like vertebrae.