Anatomy & Physiology: Integumentary System

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Functions of skin

Protection, heat regulation, and synthesizing Vitamin D

3 basic layers

Epidermis(outermost), Dermis(middle layer), Hypodermis(Fatty under layer)

Epidermis

made of stratified squamous epithelium, avascular, contains keratinocytes and melanocytes

What do keratinocytes do along the stratum basale?

Divide rapidly and produce keratin. Once at stratum corneum they are flattened, hard, and dead

Melanocytes

Along the stratum basale, produces brown melanin that blocks harmful UV that become more active when exposed to UV

Dermis

provides structural integrity, made of collagen and elastin interlaced throughout the dermis(loose connective)

Capillary loops

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Eccrine Sweat glands

releases sweat to regulate high body temp, empty through a pore at the surface of the skin

Apocrine sweat glands

specialized sweat glands found in armpit and groin, responsible for order

sebaceous glands

produce oil(helps lubricate and waterproof the skin)

Hair and nails

extension of epidermis and embedded within the dermis(produce heavily keratinized cells)

Hypodermis(subcutaneous) layer

Contains adipose cells for thermal insulation and shock absorption