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Questions and Answers
Which cell type primarily contributes to the skin's water-resistant barrier through the process of keratinization?
Which cell type primarily contributes to the skin's water-resistant barrier through the process of keratinization?
- Langerhans cells
- Melanocytes
- Keratinocytes (correct)
- Merkel cells
In which layer of the epidermis does keratinization begin, contributing to the formation of a water-resistant barrier?
In which layer of the epidermis does keratinization begin, contributing to the formation of a water-resistant barrier?
- Stratum Spinosum
- Stratum Basale
- Stratum Granulosum (correct)
- Stratum Lucidum
If a patient has a reduced number of Langerhans cells, which of the following functions of the epidermis would be most affected?
If a patient has a reduced number of Langerhans cells, which of the following functions of the epidermis would be most affected?
- Water resistance
- Protection against UV radiation
- Tactile sensation
- Immune response to pathogens (correct)
A skin biopsy from the sole of a foot reveals several layers of dead, flattened keratinocytes without nuclei. Which epidermal layer is most likely being observed?
A skin biopsy from the sole of a foot reveals several layers of dead, flattened keratinocytes without nuclei. Which epidermal layer is most likely being observed?
Which of the following is the primary function of melanocytes found in the epidermis?
Which of the following is the primary function of melanocytes found in the epidermis?
Flashcards
Integumentary System
Integumentary System
The skin and its accessory structures, providing a protective barrier.
Epidermis
Epidermis
Outer layer of skin; composed of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium.
Keratinocytes
Keratinocytes
Cells in the epidermis that produce the protein keratin (water insoluble).
Melanocytes
Melanocytes
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Stratum Basale
Stratum Basale
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Study Notes
- The integumentary system is defined as the skin and its accessory structures
Layers of the Integumentary System
- The epidermis is avascular
- The dermis is vascular
- The hypodermis is also known as the subcutaneous (fat) layer
Epidermis
- The epidermis is made of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium
Cell Types of the Epidermis
- Keratinocytes produce the water insoluble protein keratin, which hardens structures
- Keratinocytes are approximately 90% of epidermal cells
- Melanocytes produce melanin, a brown/black pigment that absorbs UV light and is the primary skin pigment
- Melanocytes are approximately 8% of epidermal cells
- Langerhans cells are produced in the bone marrow and help provide immunity to the epidermis
- Merkel cells are nerve endings for touch and are disc-shaped
Layers of the Epidermis (Deep to Superficial)
- Stratum Basale: a single layer of cuboidal shaped cells that are mitotically active
- Stratum Spinosum: Consists of 8 to 10 cell layers, and cells start to flatten as they reach the upper part of this layer
- Stratum Granulosum: Consists of 3 to 5 cell layers, cells continue to flatten out, and cells begin to die forming a water resistant barrier e.g. keratinization
- Stratum Lucidum: only present on the finger tips, palms and soles of the feet; consists of 3 to 5 layers of cells
- Stratum Corneum: Consists of 20 to 30 cell layers in thickness; made of flattened dead keratinocytes with no nuclei; outer layers are continually shed needing to be replaced
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Description
Explore the integumentary system, focusing on skin layers: epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. Learn about epidermal cell types like keratinocytes and melanocytes and their roles. Discover the layers of the epidermis, from the stratum basale to the stratum spinosum.
