Unit Three - Human A&P (Integumentary System/Skin)

Page 100 and Glossary

Cutaneous Membrane

Another name for skin.

Epithelial Membranes

Thin sheets of tissue lining the internal and external surfaces of the body.

Mucous Membranes

Thin sheets of tissue lining the body cavities that open to the outside world.

Serous Fluid

A thin, clear liquid that serves as a lubricant between parietal and visceral membranes.

Serous Membranes

Thin sheets that line body cavities closed to the outside world.

Synovial Fluid

A clear liquid secreted by synovial membranes that provides cushioning and reduces friction in synovial joints.

Synovial Membrane

A lining of the synovial joint cavity that produces synovial fluid.

Apocrine Glands

Sweat glands located in the genital and armpit areas that secrete a milky fluid consisting of sweat, fatty acids, and proteins.

Eccrine Glands

Sweat glands located over the majority of the body that produce a clear, acidic fluid that consists of approximately 99% water, but it also contains waste products such as urea, uric acid, salts, and vitamin C.

Epidermal Dendritic Cells

Skin cells that initiate an immune system response to the presence of foreign bacteria or viruses.

Keratin

A tough protein found in the skin, hair, and nails.

Keratinocytes

Cells within the epidermis that produce keratin.

Melanin

A pigment that protects the body against the harmful effects of ultraviolet damage from the sun.

Melanocytes

Specialized cells in the skin that produce melanin.

Merkel Cells

Touch receptors in the skin.

Sebaceous Glands

Glands located all over the body that produce sebum.

Sebum

An oily substance that helps to keep the skin and hair soft.

Sudoriferous Glands

Sweat glands that are distributed in the dermis over the entire body.

Malignant Melanoma

Cancer of the melanocytes; the most serious form of skin cancer.

Peritonitis

Inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane lining the inner wall of the abdomen and covering the abdominal organs.

Pleurisy

Inflammation of the pleura, the membrane that encases the lungs.