Chap 16, Introduction Flashcards
integumentary system
The skin and its accessory structures such as hair and nails.
4 functions of the integumentary system
- Protection 2. Contains 2 types of glands that produce important secretions. 3. Nerve fibers under the skin are receptors for sensory input for the body. 4. Different tissues in the skin maintain body temperature (thermoregulation).
1st function, Protection:
- Protective membrane over entire body and guards deeper tissue against excessive loss of water, salts, and heat and against invasion of pathogens and their toxins.
2nd function, 2 types of Glands:
- Sebaceous glands: Oil-secreting gland in the dermis that is associated with hair follicles. 2. Eccrine and apocrine sweat glands provide thermoregulation, and removal of toxins.
3rd nerve fibers:
Are receptors for sensations such as pain, temperature, pressure and touch. Thus the body’s adjustment to the environment depends on sensory messages relayed to the brain and spinal cord by sensitive nerve endings in the skin.
4th, different tissues in the skin provide thermoregulation.
Nerve fibers coordinate thermoregulation in body. Impulses from these fibers cause blood vessels to dilate to bring blood to the surface and cause sweat glands to produce the watery secretion that carries heat away.