Recording-2025-03-13T01:29:22

Glands of the Skin

• Eccrine Glands

  • Function: Primarily involved in sweat production.

  • Important for thermoregulation through perspiration.

• Apocrine Glands

  • Function: Produce oil; associated with hair follicles.

  • Commonly found in armpits and groin area.

  • These glands secrete a thicker fluid that can lead to body odor when broken down by bacteria.

Skin Layers

• Epidermis

  • Outermost layer of skin.

  • Contains multiple sub-layers, including:

    • Stratum Corneum:

      • Top layer, composed of dead keratinized cells.

      • Provides a protective barrier against environmental damage.

      • Rich in keratin which aids in water retention.

    • Stratum Lucidum:

      • Found only in thick skin areas such as palms and soles.

      • Provides an additional layer of cushion.

    • Stratum Granulosum:

      • Contains granules rich in keratin and helps cells to become more resistant to water.

      • Cells in this layer are gradually dying and losing their nuclei.

    • Stratum Spinosum:

      • Contains living cells that appear spiky due to desmosomal connections.

      • Provides strength and flexibility to the skin.

    • Stratum Basale:

      • Bottom layer with stem cells that continuously divide to replenish the outer layers.

      • Attached to the dermis and plays a crucial role in skin growth.

Dermis

• Divided into two layers:

  • Papillary Layer:

    • Contains dermal papillae, which increase surface area for exchange with the epidermis.

    • Composed of loose connective tissue with capillaries and sensory neurons.

  • Reticular Layer:

    • Deeper layer containing dense irregular connective tissue.

    • Rich in reticular and collagen fibers, providing strength and elasticity.

Subcutaneous Layer

• Also known as hypodermis.

• Composed primarily of adipose tissue, providing insulation and energy storage.

• Has connections to underlying fascia and muscles.

Protection Mechanisms

• The multiple layers of the skin serve as a barrier to pathogens.

• The stratum corneum, for instance, acts as an impenetrable sheet protecting from harmful substances.

Clinical Connections

• Burn Classification:

  • First Degree: Affects only the epidermis.

  • Second Degree: Extends into the dermis.

  • Third Degree: Destroys both epidermal and dermal layers, affecting deeper structures.

• Marfan's Disease:

  • A genetic disorder leading to a deficiency in elastic tissue, affecting skin elasticity and structural integrity.

Conclusion

• Understanding skin structure and function is critical for recognizing various skin conditions and their treatments.

• Review of layers and functions is essential for practical application in medical and health-related fields.