Skin Flashcards
What are the main components of the integumentary system?
The integumentary system consists of the skin, hair, and nails.
What are the two main layers of the skin?
The two main layers of the skin are the epidermis and the dermis.
What is the primary function of the epidermis?
The epidermis serves as the outermost protective barrier of the skin and is primarily made of keratinocytes.
What are the key components and functions of the dermis?
The dermis contains nerve endings, blood vessels, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, and hair follicles. It regulates temperature and supplies blood to the epidermis.
What is the subcutaneous layer and its primary function?
The subcutaneous layer, not part of the skin, lies beneath the dermis and attaches the skin to underlying bone and muscle, containing fat and connective tissue.
What are the two layers of the dermis and their functions?
The reticular layer provides strength and elasticity, while the papillary layer contains connective tissue extending to the epidermis.
Name and briefly describe the five layers of the epidermis.
Stratum basale (stem cell layer), stratum spinosum (strength layer with keratinocytes), stratum granulosum (waterproofing layer), stratum lucidum (present in thick skin), and stratum corneum (outermost protective layer).
What are the primary functions of the skin?
The skin provides sensation, regulates temperature, acts as a barrier, stores water and lipids, and synthesises vitamin D.
What are the two types of sweat glands and their functions?
Eccrine glands cool the body and are found all over, while apocrine glands are found in specific areas like armpits and produce body odour.
How does the skin contribute to vitamin D synthesis?
The skin contains ergosterol, which is converted into vitamin D2 upon exposure to sunlight, aiding in calcium and phosphorus absorption.
