Integumentary Key Terms and Abbreviations

Terms and their definitions

Basal Layer

Deepest skin layer, only living cell layer, where skin cancer grows

Dermis

2nd layer, houses capillaries, lymph vessels, nerves, hair follicles, glands

Hypodermis

Subcutaneous layer, binds dermis to underlying structures, stores fat, regulates temp

Hyperhidrosis

Excessive/profuse sweating (also: diaphoresis or sudoresis)

Anhidrosis

Abnormal condition of not sweating

Vitiligo

Localized loss of skin pigmentation, milke-white patches

Erythema

Redness caused by swelling of capillaries

Pruritus

Intense itching

Abscess

Localized collection of pus at infection site

Cellulitis

Widespread acute infection of skin and subcutaneous tissue

Pyoderma

Skin infection with pus formation

Tinea

Fungal infection (ringworm), name indicated body part affected

Fluctuance

Tense skin with wave-like or body feeling upon palpation

Onychomalacia

Softening of the nails

Subungual

Pertaining to beneath the nail of a finer or toe

Cryotherapy

Use of subfreezing temp (liquid nitrogen) to destroy abnormal tissue

C & S

Culture and Sensitivity, identifies microorganism to determine medication

FS (Frozen Section)

Ultrathin tissue slice from frozen specimen, examined for malignancy

I & D

Incision and Drainage, cutting into abcess to allow pus to drain

IV (intravenous)

Pertaining to within the vein

ID (Intradermal)

Pertaining to within the dermis

Albino

Person who cannot produce melanin