Dermis and Hypodermis Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the dermis and hypodermis, including layers, structures, and functions, to aid in understanding skin anatomy.

Dermis

The second official layer of the skin, located just deep to the epidermis, made entirely of connective tissue.

Papillary Layer

The superficial most layer of the dermis, which is highly vascularized and contains epidermal ridges.

Merkel's Discs

Receptors located in the dermis and stratum basale that detect light touch.

Meissner's Corpuscles

Receptors in the dermis that also detect light touch.

Pacinian Corpuscles

Receptors that detect deep pressure and vibration, found in deeper layers of the dermis.

Root Hair Plexus

Nerves around the root of a hair that detect slight movements.

Free Nerve Endings

Receptors that detect pain and can be activated by physical damage or chemical signals indicating pain.

Reticular Layer

The majority layer of the dermis composed of dense irregular connective tissue, collagen, and elastin.

Lines of Cleavage

Specific arrangements of collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis that affect wound healing outcomes.

Hypodermis

Also known as subcutaneous tissue or superficial fascia, this layer has more adipose tissue and serves as an energy reservoir.

Adipose Tissue

Fat tissue in the hypodermis that acts as an energy reservoir and insulator.

Hypodermic Injection

Injection method used in the hypodermis, as it contains few capillaries and no vital organs, allowing for better absorption.

Sex Hormones

Hormones like testosterone and estrogen that influence fat distribution patterns in the body.