The Integumentary System

These flashcards cover comprehensive terms and concepts related to the Integumentary System, including its anatomy, physiology, diseases, and conditions.

Integumentary System

The organ system that includes the skin and its associated structures.

Body Membranes

Thin layers of tissue that cover surfaces, line cavities, and form protective sheets around organs.

Epithelial Membranes

Types of membranes that are composed of epithelial tissue combined with a layer of connective tissue.

Connective Tissue Membranes

Membranes that are primarily composed of connective tissue.

Cutaneous Membrane

The skin; a dry membrane that covers the body.

Mucous Membranes

Wet membranes that line body cavities opening to the exterior, adapted for absorption or secretion.

Serous Membranes

Membranes that line closed body cavities and secrete serous fluid to reduce friction.

Parietal Layer

The layer of serous membranes that lines the inside wall of a cavity.

Visceral Layer

The layer of serous membranes that lines the outer surface of an organ.

Synovial Membranes

Membranes that line the fibrous capsules surrounding joints and secrete synovial fluid.

Epidermis

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

Dermis

The thicker layer of skin beneath the epidermis, containing blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue.

Hypodermis

The subcutaneous layer of loose connective tissue fat that anchors the skin to underlying tissues.

Keratinocytes

The predominant cell type in the epidermis that produces keratin.

Melanocytes

Cells found in the lower epidermis that produce the pigment melanin.

Papillary Layer

The superficial layer of the dermis composed of dense connective tissue.

Reticular Layer

The deeper layer of the dermis, providing structural support through collagen and elastin fibers.

Sebaceous Glands

Oil glands in the skin that produce sebum to lubricate and waterproof hair and skin.

Eccrine Sweat Glands

Sweat glands that are distributed widely and help regulate body temperature.

Apocrine Sweat Glands

Sweat glands found mainly in the axillary and genital areas that produce thicker sweat.

Hair Follicle

The structure from which hair grows and from which sebum is secreted.

Nail Matrix

The tissue at the base of the nail that produces new nail cells.

Keratin

A tough protein that gives skin, hair, and nails their impermeable and protective qualities.

Vitamin D

A vitamin produced when the skin is exposed to sunlight, necessary for calcium absorption.

Melanin

A pigment produced by melanocytes that protects skin from UV radiation.

Desquamation

The process of shedding dead skin cells from the surface of the epidermis.

Burns

Injuries to the skin that can result from heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation.

First-degree Burns

Burns that affect only the epidermis, causing redness and swelling.

Second-degree Burns

Burns that damage the epidermis and upper dermis, causing redness and blistering.

Third-degree Burns

Burns that destroy the entire thickness of the skin, resulting in gray, white, or black areas.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

The least malignant and most common type of skin cancer.

Malignant Melanoma

The most deadly skin cancer that arises from melanocytes and spreads rapidly.

ABCDE Rule

A method to assess moles for signs of melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color, Diameter, Evolving.

Vernix Caseosa

A white, cheesy substance on the skin of newborns that protects the skin in utero.

Milia

Small white cysts that can occur in newborns from sebaceous gland accumulations.

Acne

Skin condition caused by clogged hair follicles, often leading to pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads.

Meissner's Corpuscles

Touch receptors in the skin that detect light touch.

Pacinian Corpuscles

Deep pressure receptors located deeper in the dermis.

Dermal Papillae

Projections of dermal tissue that interdigitate with the epidermis to supply nutrients.

Collagen

A protein in the dermis that provides strength and hydration to the skin.

Elastin

A protein in the skin that provides elasticity.

Keratinization

The process by which keratinocytes fill with keratin as they move toward the skin's surface.

Hypothermia

Low body temperature condition corrected by constricting blood vessels and reducing blood flow.

Hyperthermia

High body temperature condition corrected by activating sweat glands and increasing blood flow.

Free Nerve Endings

Nerve endings in the skin that detect temperature and pain.

Lunula

The visible part of the nail matrix that appears as a white crescent shape.

Decubitus Ulcers

Pressure sores caused by prolonged pressure on the skin.

Impetigo

A bacterial skin infection characterized by red sores.

Boils

Infections of hair follicles, often filled with pus.

Fungal Infections

Skin infections caused by fungal growth, often presenting as rashes.

Skin Elasticity

The skin's ability to stretch and return to its original shape.

Subcutaneous Fat

Fat tissue below the dermis that provides insulation and cushioning.

Hypodermics

Referring to the hypodermis, the layer of tissue beneath the dermis.

Detergents

Substances that can damage skin's natural barriers.

Avascular

Lacking blood vessels, as in certain parts of the epidermis.

UV Radiation

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

Hygiene

Daily skin care practices that protect skin health.

Skin Regeneration

The process by which the skin heals and renews itself after injury.

Body Temperature Regulation

The process through which the body maintains its temperature through sweating and blood flow adjustments.

Sweat Composition

The mixture of water, salts, vitamin C, and metabolic wastes found in sweat.

Sebum

Oil secreted by sebaceous glands, which lubricates and protects skin.

Hirsutism

Excessive hair growth in women in areas where men typically grow hair.

Homeostasis

The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions.

Hypohidrosis

Reduced ability to sweat, potentially leading to overheating.

Epidermal Growth Factors

Substances that promote cell growth and regeneration in the epidermis.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

A common skin condition causing scaly patches and red skin, often on the scalp.

Genetics in Skin Health

The role of genetic factors in determining skin type and susceptibility to conditions.

Skin Microbiome

The diverse community of microorganisms living on the skin.”},{

Apoptosis in Skin

The programmed cell death that regularly occurs in skin cells during regeneration.

UV Protection

The strategies employed to protect skin from harmful UV radiation.

Skin Sensitivity

The response of skin to environmental factors which can result in irritation or allergic reactions.

Hormones and Skin

The influence of hormonal changes on skin conditions, such as acne or pigmentation.

Inflammation in Skin

The body's reaction to skin injury characterized by redness, swelling, and warmth.

Hypopigmentation

Decreased pigmentation in the skin resulting in lighter patches.

Xerosis

Abnormal dryness of the skin.

Skin Thickness

Variability of skin layers which can affect heat retention and sensitivity.

Photosensitivity

Increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, potentially leading to burning.

Skin Care Products

Cosmetics and medications applied to the skin for health or aesthetic purposes.

Oily Skin

Skin type characterized by overproduction of sebum, often leading to acne.

Allergic Reactions

Immunological responses that can cause hives, rashes, or itching.“},{

Skin Testing

Methods used to diagnose skin conditions or allergies.

Wound Healing

The process whereby the skin repairs itself after an injury.

Skin Lesions

Abnormal growths or patches on the skin that can indicate infection or disease.

Skeletal System and Skin

The relationship between bones and skin as they protect underlying structures.

Cutaneous Receptors

Sensory receptors associated with the skin that respond to various stimuli.

Nutritional Needs for Skin

The essential vitamins and minerals necessary for maintaining healthy skin.

Thermal Regulation

The body's process of sustaining a stable internal temperature through skin modifications.

Hydration and Skin

Importance of moisture levels for maintaining skin's elasticity and health.