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Questions and Answers
What is the largest organ of the human body?
Skin
What percentage of total body weight does the skin account for in an average adult?
The __________ is the avascular superficial epithelial layer comprising melanocytes.
epidermis
Which of the following is NOT a layer of skin?
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Melanocytes are found in the dermis layer of the skin.
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What is the main function of nails?
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What percentage of body surface does the anterior and posterior trunk account for in the Rule of Nines?
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Match the following regions of the body to their percentage of total body surface area in the Rule of Nines:
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Incisions made parallel to Langer's lines lead to more retraction and prominent scar formation.
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What is the purpose of the clinical significance of cleavage lines of Langer?
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Study Notes
Skin
- Largest organ in the human body, forming the external surface
- Covers an area of 1.2 to 2.2 square meters
- Accounts for 7% of an adult's total body weight
Structure
- Three main layers: epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layer (Hypodermis)
- Epidermis: Outermost, avascular epithelial layer, containing melanocytes which produce melanin giving skin its color
- Dermis: Deeper, vascular connective tissue layer containing collagen fibers
- Subcutaneous layer (Hypodermis): Contains blood vessels and adipose tissue (fat)
Skin Appendages
- Include nails, hair, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands
Functions
- Acts as a barrier against microorganisms and harmful UV rays
- Helps regulate body temperature
- Involved in vitamin D synthesis (activated by UV rays)
- Provides sensory input (touch, pressure, temperature, pain)
- Allows absorption of topical substances like creams
Nails
- Protect the fingertips and toes
- Composed of dead cells packed with keratin
Cleavage Lines of Langer
- Dermis contains collagen fibers arranged in parallel rows
- Langer's lines: The direction of these rows
- Circumferential (circular) on the neck, trunk, and abdomen
- Longitudinal (parallel to the long axis of the body) on the head and limbs
Clinical Importance of Cleavage Lines
- Incisions made across Langer's lines: tend to lead to more wound retraction, gapping, and prominent scarring
- Incisions made parallel to Langer's lines: tend to lead to less retraction, less wound gapping, and less scarring
Surface Area of Skin - "Rule of Nines"
- Method for assessing the extent of burns
- Divides the body into anatomical regions representing 9% of the total body surface area
- Used to estimate the percentage of body surface affected by burns
- Helps in determining the severity of the burn and guiding treatment
Body Regions and Their Percentages
- Head and Neck (anterior & posterior): 9%
- Trunk (anterior & posterior): 36%
- Upper Extremities (anterior & posterior): 18%
- Lower Extremities (anterior & posterior): 36%
- Perineum: 1%
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Description
This quiz delves into the fascinating anatomy and functions of the human skin, the largest organ in the body. Explore its layers, appendages, and the critical roles it plays in protecting and regulating our body. Learn about the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layers, along with the importance of nails and sensory functions.
