Unit 2 - The Integumentary System Flashcards
List the layers of the skin
- Epidermis
- Dermis
- Hypodermis/Subcutaneous tissue
Define Epidermis
Epidermis - Outermost layer of the skin comprising of dead or dying cells
Define Sebum
Sebum - Fatty secretion of the sebaceous gland that help keeps the skin pliable and waterproof
Define Dermis
True skin, also called the corium; it is the layer of tissue producing the epidermis and housing the structures, blood vessels, and nerves normally associated with the skin
Define Sebaceous Glands
Sebaceous Glands - Glands within the dermis secreting sebum
During adolescence, increase their activity. Predisposing teenagers to acne problems
Define Sudoriferous Glands
Sudoriferous Glands - Glands within the dermis that secrete sweat
What structures does the Dermis contain?
- Blood vessels
- Nerve endings
- Glands
- Hair roots
What are the two types of sweat glands?
- Eccrine glands
- Apocrine glands
Define Eccrine Glands
Eccrine Glands - Also known as merocrine glands, open onto the skin surface and help control body temperature through water excretion. Widely distributed, most concentrated in the axilla and genital areas
Define Apocrine Glands
Apocrine Glands - Found exclusively in the armpits and genital region, they open into hair follicles. They respond to emotional stress
During adolescence, they enlarge and actively increase axillary sweating, causing body odor
Define Subcutaneous Tissue
Subcutaneous Tissue - Body layer beneath the dermis
How does Subcutaneous Tissue help conserve body temperature?
Subcutaneous tissue is rich in fatty or adipose tissue. Due to its fatty content, heat moves outward three times more slowly than muscles
What causes hair to stand up?
Arrector pili muscle fibers are attached to the base of the hair shaft. When they contract, the hair sands erect, and goosebumps appear on the skin
What are the two types of hair?
- Vellus
- Terminal
Define Vellus
Vellus hair is short, fine, and lacking pigment (similar to “peach fuzz”)
