Skin function

Question 1

In general, how can the skin function be impaired?

Answer 1

Damage to the physical barrier - e.g trauma/ surgery/ burns/ insect bites

Poor vasculature - poor blood supply to skin can impair function

Change to microbiome of skin - due to antibiotics

Impaired immune system - Diabetes mellitus/ chemotherapy/ HIV

Question 1

In general, how does the skin function in regards to preventing infection as part of the innate immune system?

Answer 1

Physical barrier – prevent invasion

Prevent growth of pathogens - acidic pH/ sweat/ commensal flora

Langerhans cells act as antigen presenting cells and stimulate humoural immune response