(A&P) The Skin Flashcards
What is the primary function of the skin?
Protection, regulation of body temperature, sensation, excretion, and vitamin D synthesis.
What are the three main layers of the skin?
Epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layer.
What is the role of the epidermis?
It provides a waterproof barrier and creates our skin tone.
Describe the dermis layer.
It contains tough connective tissue, hair follicles, and sweat glands.
What is the subcutaneous layer?
It is made of fat and connective tissue and helps insulate the body.
How many layers does the epidermis have, and what are they?
Stratum corneum (Horny layer), stratum lucidum (Clear layer), stratum granulosum (Granular layer), stratum spinosum (Prickle layer), and stratum basale (Basal layer).
What is the function of melanin?
It protects the skin from UV radiation.
How does the skin regulate body temperature?
Through sweating and controlling blood flow to the skin surface.
What are the functions of sweat glands?
They help cool the body and excrete waste products.
What is the purpose of sebaceous glands?
They secrete sebum to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair.
What is the role of hair follicles?
To produce hair, which helps with sensation and protection.
How does the skin sense touch?
Through sensory nerve endings.
Describe the process of keratinization.
It’s the process where cells in the epidermis become filled with keratin protein, die, and form a protective layer.
What is the importance of the acid mantle on the skin?
It maintains the skin’s pH and protects against microorganisms.
How does the skin respond to injury?
Through a process of inflammation and repair involving blood clotting and tissue regeneration.
What is the function of melanocytes?
Producing melanin pigment.
How do the skin layers change with age?
They thin, lose elasticity, and regeneration slows down.
What causes skin tanning?
Increased melanin production in response to UV radiation.
What is desquamation?
The natural shedding of dead skin cells from the surface layer.
How does the skin absorb products?
Through pores and hair follicles
Why is hydration important for the skin?
It maintains skin elasticity and prevents drying out.
What causes acne?
Blocked sebaceous glands leading to inflammation and infection.
How does the skin excrete waste?
Through sweat and sebaceous glands.
What is the function of blood vessels in the skin?
They provide nutrients and oxygen and aid in temperature regulation.
What are the effects of UV exposure on the skin?
It can cause damage leading to aging, sunburn, and skin cancer.
What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction in the skin?
Redness, itching, swelling, or hives.
