Integument Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts from the integument lecture, focusing on the structure, function, disorders, and healing processes related to the skin.

Integument

The largest system of the body, consisting of skin and accessory structures.

Functions of Skin

Includes protection, excretion, temperature regulation, melanin production, keratin production, vitamin D3 synthesis, lipid storage, and sensory detection.

Cutaneous Membrane

The skin that is composed of the epidermis and dermis.

Epidermis

The outer layer of skin consisting of keratinized cells, responsible for protection.

Dermis

The inner layer of skin containing connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerve fibers.

Hypodermis

Also known as the subcutaneous layer, it lies below the integument and helps stabilize the skin.

Keratinocytes

The primary cells found in the epidermis that produce keratin.

Melanocytes

Cells located in the epidermis that produce melanin, a pigment that contributes to skin color.

Stratum Basale

The lowest layer of the epidermis where cell division occurs; forms strong bonds with the dermis.

Stratum Corneum

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

Keratinization

The process by which keratinocytes form a layer of dead cells filled with keratin as they move up through the epidermis.

Sebaceous Glands

Oil glands in the skin that discharge sebum to lubricate and protect the epidermis.

Sweat Glands

Exocrine glands that are involved in cooling the body and excreting waste.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

The most common type of skin cancer, arises from keratinocytes in the stratum basale, rarely metastasizes.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The second most common skin cancer, derived from keratinocytes in the stratum spinosum, more likely to metastasize.

Malignant Melanoma

A highly metastatic skin cancer originating from melanocytes.

Vitamin D3

Produced in the skin upon exposure to UVB radiation, essential for calcium absorption.

Carotene

An orange-yellow pigment found in certain vegetables, contributes to skin color, can be converted to vitamin A.

Epidermal Wound Healing

A type of healing involving the regeneration of skin from the stratum basale.

Deep Wound Healing

Involves the formation of scar tissue and regeneration through inflammatory, migratory, proliferative, and maturation phases.