Skin and Body Membranes

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to skin and body membranes, including their structure, function, and importance.

Integument

The integument includes body membranes, skin, hair, fingernails, and sweat and oil glands.

Cutaneous Membrane

Also known as the skin; composed of two layers: the superficial epidermis and the underlying dermis.

Epithelial Membranes

Membranes that include cutaneous, mucous, and serous membranes, combined with an underlying connective tissue layer.

Mucous Membrane

Lines body cavities that open to the exterior and can secrete mucus.

Serous Membrane

Composed of simple squamous epithelium resting on areolar connective tissue, lining closed body cavities.

Epidermis

The outer layer of the skin made up of stratified squamous epithelium.

Dermis

The underlying layer of the skin, primarily composed of dense irregular connective tissue.

Sebaceous Glands

Oil glands that secrete sebum to lubricate skin and hair.

Sweat Glands

Glands that produce sweat to help regulate body temperature.

Keratinization

The process where keratinocytes produce keratin, forming a tough protective layer.

Stratum Basale

The deepest layer of the epidermis where stem cells continuously divide.

Melanin

A pigment produced by melanocytes that gives skin its color and protects DNA from UV damage.

Homeostasis

The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions.

Avascular

Describes tissues that do not contain blood vessels; e.g., the epidermis.

Acid Mantle

The acidic secretions of the skin that help inhibit microbial growth.

Decubitus Ulcers

Also known as bedsores, these occur due to prolonged pressure on the skin.

Apocrine Glands

Sweat glands located in the axillary and genital areas; influenced by hormones.

Eccrine Glands

Sweat glands widely distributed all over the body that help regulate temperature.