Integumentary System: Skin Structure and Function
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is the primary function of melanocytes?

  • Producing melanin to protect against UV radiation. (correct)
  • Producing keratin to strengthen the epidermis.
  • Initiating an immune response against pathogens.
  • Synthesizing vitamin D for calcium absorption.

Which layer of the epidermis is responsible for cell division and replacement?

  • Stratum corneum.
  • Stratum granulosum.
  • Stratum spinosum.
  • Stratum basale. (correct)

Which of the following cell types is responsible for providing a sense of touch through association with sensory nerve endings?

  • Dendritic cells
  • Melanocytes
  • Tactile epithelial cells (correct)
  • Keratinocytes

What is the primary role of dendritic cells (Langerhans cells) within the epidermis?

<p>Initiating an immune response by presenting antigens to other immune cells. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the main tissue type found in the dermis?

<p>Connective tissue (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of keratinocytes in the epidermis?

<p>Forming a tough, protective layer by producing keratin. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a primary function of the integumentary system?

<p>Calcium storage. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the distribution of melanocytes differ between individuals with different skin colors?

<p>The number of melanocytes is approximately the same in all individuals, but the amount and type of melanin produced differs. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What contributes to the spiny appearance of cells in the stratum spinosum?

<p>Artifacts of histological preparations that cause cells to appear spiny. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which layer is NOT technically part of the skin, though it is structurally and functionally related to the skin?

<p>Hypodermis (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which primary function do lamellated granules serve within the stratum granulosum?

<p>Secreting a glycolipid that prevents water loss. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic distinguishes the stratum lucidum from other epidermal layers?

<p>Its location exclusively in thick skin. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the structure of the stratum corneum contribute to its protective function?

<p>The thick layer of dead keratinocytes and thickened plasma membranes offers abrasion resistance. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are surgical incisions typically made parallel to cleavage lines?

<p>To promote faster healing and minimize scarring. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do dermal papillae contribute to the overall function of the skin?

<p>They increase the surface area for diffusion between the dermis and epidermis. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the hypodermis?

<p>Anchoring skin to underlying structures and providing thermal insulation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does hemoglobin contribute to skin color?

<p>It imparts a pinkish hue to the skin of individuals with less melanin. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of friction ridges, and in which layer of the skin do they originate?

<p>To facilitate gripping; originate in the dermis. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the composition of the hypodermis and its impact on elderly individuals?

<p>Composed of areolar and adipose connective tissue, thinning with age and leading to increased sensitivity to cold. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the structure and function of the dermis, how do flexure lines form, and where are they typically found?

<p>Arising from the dermis where the skin is tightly packed to joints and frequently flexed, like the creases of the palm. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary functional advantage of having a hypodermis composed largely of adipose tissue?

<p>Providing insulation and cushioning for deeper tissues and organs. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do keratinocytes contribute to the protective function of the skin?

<p>Synthesizing keratin, which provides a tough, protective barrier. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the functional significance of the lamellated granules present in the stratum granulosum?

<p>They contain a waterproofing glycolipid that helps prevent water loss. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of the stratum corneum contributes most directly to its role in protecting against abrasion and penetration?

<p>Its thick layer of dead keratinocytes with thickened plasma membranes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the dermis considered a critical component in temperature regulation?

<p>It is richly supplied with blood vessels that can dilate or constrict to regulate heat loss. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the arrangement of collagen fibers in the reticular layer of the dermis contribute to the skin's overall function?

<p>It contributes to the skin's strength and elasticity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do tactile epithelial cells (Merkel cells) play in the function of the epidermis?

<p>Associating with sensory nerve endings to provide a sense of touch. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes thick skin from thin skin in terms of epidermal layers?

<p>Thick skin has a stratum lucidum, while thin skin generally lacks this layer. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the dermal papillae enhance the function of the skin?

<p>By increasing the surface area for nutrient exchange between the dermis and epidermis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does carotene contribute to skin color, and where does it originate?

<p>It produces a yellowish pigment and originates from dietary sources like carrots and tomatoes. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the direct consequence of damage to the stratum basale?

<p>Compromised structural integrity and impaired regeneration of the epidermis. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does residing in a region with high UV radiation affect epidermal structure and function over time?

<p>It stimulates melanocyte activity, increases keratinocyte turnover, and can result in a thicker stratum corneum. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the relationship between collagen and elastin in the dermis?

<p>Collagen fibers provide the dermis with its strength and resilience, while elastin fibers enable it to stretch and recoil. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an accurate comparison between eccrine and apocrine sweat glands regarding their function and location?

<p>Eccrine glands are primarily for thermoregulation and are found all over the body, while apocrine glands are associated with hair follicles in sensitive areas and produce a viscous secretion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do sebaceous glands contribute to maintaining the integrity and function of the integument?

<p>By secreting sebum, which lubricates the skin and hair, and prevents water loss. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the integumentary system facilitate thermoregulation during exercise?

<p>By dilating blood vessels in the dermis to dissipate heat and increasing sweat gland activity for evaporative cooling. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do sensory receptors in the skin play in maintaining homeostasis?

<p>They detect changes in the external environment like temperature and pressure, triggering appropriate responses. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might severe burns compromise the barrier function of the skin and impact overall health?

<p>Compromised barrier function leads to dehydration, infection risk, and impaired temperature regulation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the skin contribute to the synthesis of vitamin D, and why is this important for overall health?

<p>Modified cholesterol molecules in the epidermis are converted to vitamin D precursors upon exposure to UV radiation; vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the aging process, what changes occur in the integumentary system that contribute to increased risk of injury and decreased thermoregulation in elderly individuals?

<p>Decreased elasticity of collagen, thinning of the epidermis, reduced subcutaneous fat, and decreased sweat gland activity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Integumentary System

The system that includes skin, glands, hair, and nails.

Epidermis

The outermost layer of skin, primarily made of epithelial tissue.

Dermis

The thicker layer of skin composed of connective tissue, below the epidermis.

Hypodermis

A layer of fat and connective tissue lying beneath the dermis, not considered skin.

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Keratinocytes

Cells that make up most of the epidermis and produce keratin.

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Melanocytes

Cells that produce melanin, which protects against UV rays.

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Tactile epithelial cells

Also known as Merkel cells, they provide the sense of touch.

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Dendritic cells

Also known as Langerhans cells, play a role in the immune system.

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Stratum basale

The deepest layer of the epidermis where cells are rapidly dividing.

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Stratum granulosum

Layer of the epidermis where keratinocytes begin to die and granules are present.

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Stratum Lucidum

Layer of skin only found in thick skin, composed of dead keratinocytes.

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Stratum Corneum

The most superficial layer of skin, made of dead keratinocytes.

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Dermal Papillae

Projections from the dermis that increase surface area with the epidermis.

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Reticular Layer

Deeper layer of the dermis contributing to its thickness (80%).

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Friction Ridges

Raised patterns in skin from the dermis, aiding grip.

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Cleavage Lines

Lines in the dermis that influence healing after surgical incisions.

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Melanin

The primary pigment responsible for skin color.

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Hemoglobin

Protein in red blood cells influencing skin color in lighter individuals.

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Sebaceous Glands

Glands in the skin that produce oil (sebum) to lubricate and waterproof the skin.

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Sweat Glands

Glands that produce sweat for thermoregulation and excretion.

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Hair Follicles

Structures in the skin that produce hair.

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Nails

Protective coverings on the tips of fingers and toes made of keratin.

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Thermoregulation

Process by which the body maintains its temperature.

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Skin Pigmentation

The coloring of skin resulting from melanin, carotene, and hemoglobin.

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Protection

Function of the skin to guard against injury, infection, and UV radiation.

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Sensation

The ability of skin to detect touch, pressure, pain, and temperature.

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Absorption

The process where skin can absorb certain substances, like medications.

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Vitamin D Synthesis

The process where skin synthesizes vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.

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Hypodermis Function

Anchors skin to underlying structures and helps insulate the body.

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Keratin Production

Keratinocytes produce keratin, a tough fibrous protein.

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Epidermis Layers

Includes stratum basale, spinosum, granulosum, lucidum, and corneum.

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Stratum Spinosum

Layer of the epidermis known for its spiny appearance and dendritic cells.

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Papillary Layer

Upper layer of the dermis forming dermal papillae and providing nutrients.

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Eccrine Sweat Gland

Glands that produce sweat for thermoregulation.

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Friction Ridges Function

Enhance grip and sensitivity in the skin.

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Melanin Function

Pigment responsible for skin color and UV protection.

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Dermal Vascular Plexus

Network of blood vessels in the dermis providing nutrients.

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Study Notes

Integumentary System Overview

  • The integumentary system includes skin, sweat/oil glands, hair, and nails.
  • Skin is the largest organ, accounting for 7% of body weight.
  • Skin thickness varies from 1.5-4.4 mm; thickest on palms and soles.
  • Skin is divided into epidermis (epithelial tissue), dermis (connective tissue), and hypodermis.
  • The hypodermis is structurally and functionally related to the skin, but not technically part of it.
  • The hypodermis is primarily composed of fat.

Skin Layers

  • Epidermis (epithelial): thin outer layer; composed of keratinocytes.
  • Dermis (connective tissue): thick layer; the majority of the skin; contains blood vessels, nerve endings, and other structures.
  • Hypodermis (superficial fascia): the deepest layer, located beneath the dermis; composed of both adipose and areolar connective tissue.

Skin Functions

  • Cushions and insulates deeper organs
  • Protects from physical damage (bumps, scrapes, cuts)
  • Protects from chemicals, heat, and cold
  • Involved in excretion (through sweat)
  • Produces vitamin D (needed for calcium)
  • Contains sensory receptors (associated with nerve endings)
  • Contains melanocytes that produce melanin (a pigment that interferes with UV rays)
  • Contains keratinocytes that produce keratin (a tough fibrous protein)

Skin Cells

  • Keratinocytes: most abundant cell type; produce keratin.
  • Melanocytes: produce melanin (pigment); important in skin protection from UV rays.
  • Tactile epithelial cells (Merkel cells): provide sense of touch.
  • Dendritic cells (Langerhans cells): part of the immune system; role in immune response.

Epidermal Layers

  • Stratum basale (germinativum): deepest layer; actively dividing cells.
  • Stratum spinosum: cells with spiny appearance, due to desmosomes and the histological prep process.
  • Stratum granulosum: contains keratinocytes, which are the last living cells in the epidermis.
  • Stratum lucidum: present only in thick skin; composed of flat, dead keratinocytes.
  • Stratum corneum: outermost layer; composed of dead keratinocytes.

Dermis Layers

  • Papillary Layer: superficial; includes dermal papillae which project into the epidermis; creating texture.
  • Reticular Layer: deeper layer; accounts for 80% of the dermis's thickness; composed of dense irregular connective tissue and collagen and elastin fibers, providing strength and flexibility.

Skin Markings (friction ridges, cleavage lines, flexure lines)

  • Friction ridges: on the tips of the fingers; enhance gripping ability.
  • Cleavage lines: result from the arrangement of the reticular fibers, and these lines indicate how cuts/incisions heal; surgical incisions are best done parallel to these.
  • Flexure lines: occur where skin folds over joints, contributing to these lines; prominent on the palms and soles.

Hypodermis (Superficial Fascia)

  • Composed of areolar and adipose tissue.
  • Anchors skin to underlying tissue.
  • Helps with thermal insulation;
  • Pigment contributing to skin color include melanin, carotene (yellowish pigment from veggies/fruits) and hemoglobin (red pigment from RBCs,) for a pinkish hue to the skin in many people.

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Related Documents

Chapter 5 (The Integumentary System) PDF
HHP3115 Chapter 5 Integumentary System Notes PDF

Description

Explore the integumentary system, including the skin, glands, hair, and nails. Learn about the skin's layers: epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. Understand the various functions of the skin, such as protection and insulation.

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