Skin Structure and Function

Question 1

6 main functions of the skin

Answer 1

Protection
Prevention of fluid loss
Temperature regulation
Control of excretion and absorption
Sensation
Regeneration of skin tissue

Question 2

General structure of the skin (3)

Answer 2

Epidermis
Dermis
Hypodermis

Question 3

How does thickness of hypodermis distinguish between men and women?

Answer 3

In men - hypodermis is thickest in abdomen (white adipose) and shoulders (brown adipose)
In women - thickest in hips, thighs and buttocks

Question 4

Structure of the hypodermis

Answer 4

Mainly contains adipose tissue with loose connective tissue between adipocytes

Question 5

5 functions of the hypodermis

Answer 5

1. Energy store (using lipids)
2. Insulator for underlying muscle
3. Shock absorber
4. Connects skin to underlying muscle and bones
5. Makes hormones e.g. leptin which suppresses appetite

Question 6

3 layers of the dermis

Answer 6

Papillary - upper
Reticular - lower
Dermal papillae - extension into epidermis above papillary

Question 7

Functions of dermis

Answer 7

Thermoregulation
Sensory reception
Structure to skin

Question 8

Thinning of which layer of skin is responsible for skin wrinkling?

Answer 8

Dermis - less collagen and elastin

Question 9

What are the four(think)/five(thick) layers of the epidermis?

Answer 9

Stratum corneum
Stratum lucidum (only on palms and soles of feet)
Stratum granulosum
Stratum spinosum
Stratum basale

Question 10

What is the stratum corneum?

Answer 10

Outermost layer of epidermis made of squames (dead keratinocytes)