The Dermis

What are the layers of the dermis?

papillary and reticular

What kind of tissue is the papillary layer composed of?

loose connective tissue

What is the function of the papillary layer of the dermis?

to provide mechanical attachment for the more superficial epidermis

What kind of tissue is the reticular layer composed of?

dense irregular connective tissue

What is the function of the reticular layer of the dermis

to provide the strength, toughness and elasticity of the skin

What kinds of structures are found in the papillary layer of the dermis?

dermal papillae, capillaries, and axons of sensory neurons

What kinds of structures are found in the reticular layer of the dermis?

blood vessels, hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands

What is the function of interwoven collagen fibers in the dermis?

to provide tensile strength

What is the function of elastic fibers in the dermis?

to stretch and recoil

True or false: the dermis contains all cells of the connective tissue proper.

True

Cutaneous plexus

an interconnected network at the junction between the reticular layer of the dermis and the subcutaneous layer composed of the arteries and veins that supply the skin

Subpapillary plexus

a branching network of small blood vessels in the skin

What is the function of the dermal blood supply?

thermoregulation and to maintain a constant flow of blood to other tissue of the body

What is the function of nerve supply to the skin?

Controls blood flow to the skin, adjusts gland secretion rates, and monitors sensory receptors

Tactile Discs

sensory nerve endings that contact Merkel cells; light touch receptors

Ruffini Corpuscles

stretch receptors

Lamallated Corpuscles

deep pressure and vibration receptors