Skin & Mucous Membranes Flashcards
What are the functions of skin?
Protection, thermoregulation, water regulation, sensation, absorption, storage/synthesise of Vit D, Fat, Glucose etc…
What are the layers which make up skin?
Epidermis -> Dermis -> Subcutaneous layer
What are the layers of the epidermis (from exterior to interior)
Stratum corneum -> Stratum granulosum -> Stratum spinosum -> Stratum basale
What are the cells found in the epidermis and their functions?
Keratinocytes - epidermal cell producing keratin
Langerhans cells - antigen presenting cells
Merkel cells - sensory receptors
Melanocytes - produce melanin
What is a desmosome & its function?
Cell structure specialised for cell-to-cell adhesion
What is the difference between thick and thin skin?
Thick skin contains stratum lucidum whereas ‘thin skin’ doesnt
Where is thick skin found?
Palms of hands and soles of feet
What is the dermis?
Strong flexible connective tissue layer rich in collagen and elastic fibers.
Contains: fibroblasts, macrophages, adipocytes, nerve endings, blood vessels, glands, smooth muscle, lymphatics, hair follicles
What are the papillary and reticular layers of the dermis?
Papillary Layer - protects into intervals between epidermal ridges
Reticular Layer - Dense connective tissue & fiber components
What is Vitiligo?
Loss of skin pigment as a result of damaged melanocytes
What are the layers of a mucous membrane?
Epithelium -> Basement membrane -> Lamina propria
What is the function of the oral mucosa?
Protection - barrier to microorganisms
Sensation - receptors that respond to touch, taste, pain
Secretion - Maintains a moist surface
Permeability + Absorption - useful for drug delivery
What are some of the cells found in the lamina propria?
- Fibroblasts
- Immune cells
- LACK ADIPOCYTES!
