Integumentary System: Skin, Layers & Components

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is the MOST accurate analogy for the function of the subcutaneous layer (hypodermis)?

  • A manufacturing plant synthesizing essential vitamins and hormones.
  • A high-tech security system constantly monitoring for threats.
  • A climate control system regulating temperature and humidity.
  • A comfortable, insulating mattress providing cushioning and warmth. (correct)

If someone sustained damage to their dermis, which of the following functions would be MOST directly affected?

  • Production of keratinocytes
  • Temperature regulation and sensation (correct)
  • Protection against bacterial invasion
  • Vitamin D3 synthesis

A patient is unable to feel fine touch on their fingertips. Which specific cell type in the epidermis is MOST likely malfunctioning?

  • Merkel cells (correct)
  • Melanocytes
  • Keratinocytes
  • Langerhans cells

Which layer of the skin contains melanocytes, and what is their primary function?

<p>Epidermis; produce melanin for skin pigmentation and UV protection (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the integumentary system referred to as a 'one-stop-shop for survival'?

<p>Because it performs multiple crucial functions like protection, regulation, sensation, and immunity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the MAIN role of keratinocytes in the epidermis?

<p>Helping with waterproofing and protection. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The integumentary system includes all of the following structures EXCEPT:

<p>Cartilage (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes the function of the integumentary system in the process of excretion?

<p>Removing waste products through sweat. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the primary difference between thick and thin skin?

<p>Thick skin has an extra layer called the stratum lucidum, while thin skin does not. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of eccrine sweat glands?

<p>To assist in cooling the body through perspiration. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Sebaceous glands secrete sebum to perform what function?

<p>To keep skin and hair soft and waterproof. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If the skin is damaged too deeply, what occurs in place of full regeneration?

<p>Formation of scar tissue. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of hair?

<p>Increasing blood flow. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What causes body odor?

<p>Bacteria feeding on the thicker sweat released by apocrine glands. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does aging affect the skin's ability to repair itself after an injury?

<p>Aging skin loses collagen and elastin, resulting in slower healing. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What component do both hair and nails share?

<p>Keratin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Integumentary System

The skin and its accessory structures like hair, nails, and glands.

Skin's main functions

Protects, regulates temperature, provides sensation, excretion, nutrition and aids immunity.

Epidermis

Outermost layer of skin providing a protective waterproof barrier, contains keratinocytes and melanocytes.

Dermis

Middle layer of skin with blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue; contains hair follicles and glands.

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Hypodermis (Subcutaneous Layer)

Innermost layer of skin with fat and connective tissue for cushioning and insulation.

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Keratinocytes

Cells in the epidermis that produce keratin for waterproofing.

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Melanocytes

Cells in the epidermis that produces pigment to give skin its color.

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Physical Protection (Skin)

Keeps out bacteria, viruses, and harmful chemicals.

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Thick Skin

Skin found on palms/soles; contains stratum lucidum.

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Thin Skin

Skin everywhere else; more flexible, less durable.

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Hair Functions

Provides protection, sensation, temperature regulation.

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Nail Function

Protect fingertips, aid delicate movements.

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Eccrine Glands

Cooling via sweat all over the body.

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Apocrine Glands

Sweat glands in armpits/groin cause body odor.

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Sebaceous Glands

Keeps skin from drying out, softens hair/skin.

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Aging Skin

Loses collagen/elastin, leading to wrinkles and slower healing.

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Study Notes

  • The integumentary system is the skin and its related structures.
  • The skin is the largest organ, providing protection, temperature regulation, sensation, and immune support.

Components of the Integumentary System

  • Includes skin, hair, nails, sweat glands, oil glands, and mammary glands.
  • These components work together to protect and maintain the body.

Skin Layers

  • The skin consists of three layers: the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis.
  • Epidermis: The outermost layer primarily made of keratinocytes for waterproofing and protection.
    • Contains melanocytes for skin color, Merkel cells for touch sensation, and Langerhans cells for immunity.
  • Dermis: The middle layer containing blood vessels, nerves, connective tissue, hair follicles, and glands.
  • Hypodermis (Subcutaneous Layer): The bottom layer is full of fat and connective tissue for cushioning and insulation.

Functions of Skin

  • Physical Protection: Prevents the entry of bacteria, viruses, and harmful chemicals.
  • Temperature Regulation: Achieved through sweat and adjustments in blood vessel diameter.
  • Excretion: Removal of waste via sweat.
  • Nutrition: Synthesis of Vitamin D3 for bone health.
  • Sensation: Nerve endings detect touch, pain, and temperature.
  • Immune Defense: Skin cells help combat infections.

Thick vs. Thin Skin

  • Thick Skin: Found on palms and soles, includes an extra layer called the stratum lucidum for added durability.
  • Thin Skin: Found elsewhere on the body, more flexible but less durable.

Hair

  • Functions include protection, sensation, and temperature regulation.
  • Most of the body's hair is fine and barely visible, with only a small percentage on the head.

Nails

  • Protect fingertips and aid in delicate movements.
  • They are made of keratin.

Sweat Glands

  • Eccrine Glands: Found all over the body and help with cooling.
  • Apocrine Glands: Located in areas like the armpits and groin, produce a thicker sweat that contributes to body odor when broken down by bacteria.

Oil Glands (Sebaceous Glands)

  • Keep skin from drying out.
  • They secrete sebum, which keeps hair and skin soft and waterproof.

Skin Repair & Aging

  • Skin regenerates through stem cell division in the epidermis.
  • Deep damage results in scars.
  • Aging skin loses collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, dryness, and slower healing.
  • A decrease in melanocytes causes paler skin and increased sun sensitivity.
  • Sunscreen and moisturizer help maintain skin health.

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