Epidermis Layers Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the epidermis?

The upper or outer layer of the two main layers of cells that make up the skin.

What is the dermis?

The true skin; the sensitive connective tissue layer of the skin.

What is the stratum corneum?

The horny, outermost layer of the skin, composed of dead flat cells converted to keratin that continually flakes away.

Where is the stratum lucidum found?

Present only in the thick skin of the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the stratum granulosum?

Contains visible granules in the cytoplasm of its cells, which die, become keratinized, move to the surface, and flake away. Signup and view all the answers

What is the stratum spinosum known for?

The layer of the epidermis marked by the presence of prickle cells. Signup and view all the answers

What is another name for the stratum spinosum?

Spinous layer. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the stratum basale?

This layer provides new cells by mitotic cell division. Signup and view all the answers

What is another name for the stratum basale?

Basal layer. Signup and view all the answers

What is the stratum basale?

The deepest of the five layers of the epidermis. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Layers of the Epidermis

The epidermis is the upper layer of skin, essential for protection and skin functions.
It is one of two primary skin layers, the other being the dermis.

Dermis

The dermis is referred to as the true skin, as it contains sensitive connective tissues.
It supports the epidermis and houses various structures such as blood vessels and nerves.

Stratum Corneum

The outermost layer of the epidermis, known as the stratum corneum, consists of dead, flat cells filled with keratin.
This layer constantly sheds and regenerates, playing a key role in skin barrier function.

Stratum Lucidum

The stratum lucidum is a clear layer found only in thick skin areas like palms and soles.
It provides an extra layer of protection in high-friction areas.

Stratum Granulosum

Characterized by granules in the cytoplasm, the stratum granulosum marks a transition layer where cells begin to die and undergo keratinization.
Cells migrate to the skin surface from this layer, contributing to the overall skin renewal process.

Stratum Spinosum

Known as the spinous layer, the stratum spinosum features prickle cells and contributes to skin strength and flexibility.
It plays a role in the immune response by containing Langerhans cells.

Stratum Basal

The stratum basale, or basal layer, is the deepest epidermal layer responsible for generating new skin cells through mitotic division.
It contains melanocytes, which produce melanin, contributing to skin color and protection against UV radiation.

Overview of Epidermis Layers

The epidermis consists of five layers: stratum corneum, stratum lucidum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum, and stratum basale.
Each layer has distinct roles in skin health, protection, and regeneration.

Description

This quiz covers the five layers of the epidermis, focusing on key terms and definitions related to skin anatomy. Each flashcard provides detailed information about important components such as the epidermis, dermis, and stratum corneum. Enhance your understanding of skin structure with this informative resource.