Skin

  1. Define Homeostasis.

  2. Give examples of homeostasis.

  3. What are the functions of the integument?

  4. What are the layers of the skin?

  5. List the structures found in each layer of the integument.

  6. What are the functions of the structures found in each layer of the integument?

  7. What are the types of skin cancer? What is the primary cause of skin cancer?


  • Homeostasis - stable internal operating conditions in the body

  • Integument - Protective outer covering of the body

    • Functions of the integument

      • Protection

      • Helps control internal temp.

      • Sensory receptors detect environmental stimuli

    • Structure of the Skin

      • Epidermis

        • Formed by several layers of cells

        • Stratum Basale - innermost layer of the epidermis (miotic). Contains melanocytes which darken the skin and protect against UV rays

        • Stratum Corneum - outermost layer, consists of flattened dead cells = keratin

      • Dermis

        • Mostly connective tissue - composed of collagen and elastin (proteins)

        • Houses blood vessels, lymph vessels, oil and sweat glands and sensory nerves

      • Sweat Glands, Oil Glands, Hair and Arrector Pili Muscles

        • Sweat glands produce fluid in response to stress (fright/overheating)

        • Oil glands lubricate and soften the skin - reduce bacterial populations

        • Hair - root embedded in the dermis 

        • Arrector pili - smooth muscles that are attached to erect hairs - cause goosebumps

  • Hypertrichosis - A rare genetic condition that gives a person more hair than usual

What are the types of skin cancer? What is the primary cause of skin cancer?

  1. What are the functions of your skeletal system>

  2. What are the different types of 


  • Skin Cancer

  1. Most common form of cancer in the U.S.

    1. Basal cell carcinoma

    2. Squamous cell carcinoma

    3. Malignant melanoma

      1. Accounts for almost ¾ of deaths due to skin cancer

      2. 5-year survival rates

        1. Localized - 98%

        2. Regional - 62%

        3. Distant - 15%

Why do we get wrinkles?

  • Loss of collagen

  • Sun

  • Smoking