Exhaustive Study Notes on Integumentary System Anatomy, Physiology, Terminology, and Pathology (copy)

Integumentary System

Comprises the skin and accessory structures, including hair, nails, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands.

Main functions of the integumentary system

Forms a physical protective barrier, insulates and cushions, regulates body temperature, binds dermis to underlying tissues, produces protective secretions, and synthesizes Vitamin D.

Epidermis

The superficial, non-vascularized epithelial layer of the skin.

Stratum Basale

The deepest epithelial layer where active cellular division takes place.

Melanocytes

Specialized dendritic cells that produce melanin responsible for skin color.

Sudoriferous Glands

Sweat glands in the dermal layer; responsible for body odor when sweat mixes with skin flora.

Hyperhidrosis

A condition characterized by excessive sweating beyond normal thermal regulation.

Sebaceous Glands

Exocrine glands that secrete oil (sebum) into hair follicles to prevent skin desiccation.

Trichotillomania

A psychiatric disorder characterized by the urge to pull out one's own hair.

Scleroderma

A chronic autoimmune disorder leading to hardening and degeneration of skin and connective tissues.

Abscess

Localized collections of pus at an infection site.

Furuncle

A painful, dome-shaped abscess occurring within a hair follicle.

Psoriasis

A chronic inflammatory autoimmune condition characterized by thick, erythematous patches with silvery scales.

Eczema

An inflammatory skin condition lacking the silvery scales seen in psoriasis, often worsened by heat.

Acne Vulgaris

An inflammatory skin condition of pilosebaceous units, affecting adolescents and young adults, characterized by papules, pustules, and comedones.

Impetigo

A contagious bacterial skin infection common in children, characterized by vesicular lesions surrounded by erythema.

Alopecia

Partial or complete loss of hair, especially on the scalp.

Debridement

The surgical or medical removal of necrotic or infected tissue to facilitate healing.