Skin Flashcards
What is vitiligo?
Depigmentation of the skin via autoimmune destruction of melanocytes
What is alopecia?
Autoimmune hair loss
What is the epidermis?
Made up of keratinised stratified squamous epithelium
4 layers: Stratum corneum, granular layer, prickle cell layer, basal layer
Where does keratinocyte mitosis mainly occur?
The basal layer
What is a corneocyte?
A differentiated keratinocyte
The main cells present in the stratum corneum
They have a major role in the barrier function of skin
What are melanocytes?
Cells which produce melanin, the main pigment for skin colour.
What are Langerhans cells?
Found in the prickle cell layer
Present antigens to T lymphocytes
Mediate immune reactions
What is Psoriasis?
A common skin disease involving a disorder of epidermal growth and differentiation.
Extreme proliferation of the basal layer
What is allergic contact dermatitis?
An over-reaction of the immune system when in contact with certain substances. Mediated by Langerhans cells
What is malignant melanoma?
A malignant tumour of melanocytes.
What is the dermis?
Tough, fibrous and vascular layer under the basal layer.
What is the dermis made up of?
Extracellular matrix- collagens (type 1), elastin Blood vessels Lymphatic vessels Mast cells Nerves
What is a keloid?
Excessive scar tissue
What is a mast cell?
Cell containing numerous cytoplasmic granules containing histamine
What is a ‘pilosebaceous unit’?
A sebaceous gland
A hair follicle