Layers of the Skin

A series of flashcards detailing the layers of the skin, key cell types, and their functions.

Epidermis

The most superficial layer of the skin, consisting of epithelial tissue that includes keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans cells, and Merkel cells.

Keratinocytes

Cells that produce keratin, a fibrous protein, and are formed in the stratum basale of the epidermis.

Corneocytes

Flat and dead keratinocytes filled with keratin, making up the stratum corneum of the epidermis.

Melanocytes

Cells that produce melanin, which protects skin from UV damage and determines skin color.

Langerhans cells

Cells in the epidermis that participate in immunity by detecting and processing antigens.

Tactile (Merkel) cells

Sensory receptors in the epidermis that detect light touch, most abundant in sensitive skin.

Dermis

The mid layer of skin composed of connective tissue that regulates temperature and supplies blood to the epidermis.

Sebaceous (oil) glands

Glands in the dermis that produce sebum to protect and moisturize skin and hair.

Sudoriferous (sweat) glands

Glands that produce sweat, regulating body temperature through evaporation.

Hypodermis

The deep layer of skin that consists of subcutaneous areolar and adipose connective tissue, anchoring skin to underlying structures.

Dermatome

A region of skin innervated by sensory fibers from a single spinal nerve.

Alveoli

Clusters of milk-secreting cuboidal cells in the mammary glands, surrounded by myoepithelial cells.

Lactiferous sinus

A reservoir for milk in the lactating breast, formed by lactiferous ducts.

Thin skin vs Thick skin

Thin skin has fewer cell layers in the stratum spinosum, granulosum, and corneum; thick skin has a fifth layer (stratum lucidum) and lacks hairs and certain glands.