Integumentary System Flashcards
Function of the Skin
Largest organ.
Provides support for the structure of the body.
Regulates temperature, removes waste as sweat, senses change in the environment (pain, pressure, touch), aids in production of vitamen D.
3 Layers of Skin
Epidermis, Dermis, Hypodermis
Epidermis
Seamless waterproof barrier to external environment.
Prevents excessive water loss from the body.
Dermis
Provides tensile strength & elasticity of skin.
Contains nerves, sensory receptors, blood vessels that aid in regulating temperature.
Hypodermis
Attaches skin to lower structures.
Acts as insulator & shock absorber.
Subcutaneous layer.
Hair
Found in every region of skin except palms of hands, soles of feet, and parts of genitalia.
Helps regulate body temperature, protect surface of body (eyelashes included)
Nails
Protect phalanges from trauma.
Provides mechanical support for manipulating objects.
Grow from epidermal cells in nail beds.
3 Types of Glands
Sebaceous, Apocrine, Eccrine
Sebaceous
Secretions maintain the softness & hydrophobicity (water repellency) of hair and skin
sebum: oily substance
Apocrine
Secretions moisten skin during fear, pain, sexual arousal, emotions
Eccrine
Secrete sweat to regulate body temperature