Integument Physiology I Flashcards
What are the three layers of the skin (from outermost to innermost)?
Epidermis, dermis, hypodermis
What are the 4 distinct cell types of the epidermis? Most common?
Keratinocytes*, Merkel cells, Langerhans, Melanocytes
What are melanocytes responsible for?
They are responsible for the production of melanin this pigmentation of skin and hair
What are keratinocytes? Layers thick?
Specialized epithelial cell (most common)
2-5 layers
What are Langerhans cells?
Macrophages involved in immunity?
What are Merkel cells?
Sensory cells involved in perception
Composition of dermis layer?
Connective (tough and strong), has inherent flexibility
What is the dermis composed of?
Insoluble fibers
Soluble polymers
Macromolecules
Function of Soluble polymers?
Resist tensile forces
Function of macromolecules?
Resist compressive forces
What does the dermis contain?
Hair follicles, sebaceous/sweat glands, arrector pili m., lymph vessels, nerves
Hypodermis layers also called?
Subcutaneous layer
Functions of dermis?
Regular cell growth, proliferation , adhesion, migration, differentiation, wound healing. structure/function of epidermis
Which skin layer is thickest?
Hypodermis
What parts of the body do not have hypodermis?
Lips, anus, external, ear, eyelid, cheek
What does hypodermis mostly consist of?
Triglycerides
Functions of hypodermis?
Energy reserve
Thermogenesis/Insulation
Padding/support
Surface contours
Steroid reservoir (estrogen/metabolism production)
What function of skin is the most important?
Physical barrier
What are the six functions of the skin?
- Physical barrier
- Thermogenesis
- Metabolic Functions
- Immune Defense
- Indicator
- Sensory Perception
What is the primary role of the SQ layer? Hairs? Glands?
Cushioning; frictional injury; physical defense
What specifically is skin a physical barrier to?
water, electrolytes, macromolecules
What types of injurious agents does skin keep out?
Physical, chemical, microbiota
What processes of the skin contribute to its physical barrier function?
Melanin formation (prevents sun damage and camouflage), vascularity, keratinization
What is skin the first defense to?
The outside world
What substances provide antifungal/microbial properties?
Lipids, acids, lysozymes, peptides
What is the general pH of skin?
Acidic
What is the adaptive immunity regulated by?
Lymphocytes
What is skin an indicator of?
Health, internal disease, communication
What prevents BAD microbiota?
Diverse population of microorganisms