Physiology: Integumentary and Skeletal System Functions

Functions of the Integumentary System

• Provides a waterproof barrier, preventing moisture loss.
• Cushions and protects deeper tissues from injury.
• Excretes salts and urea through sweat.
• Contains sensory receptors for pain, pressure, temperature (cold and heat).
• Regulates body temperature through sweat and blood flow.
• Synthesizes vitamin D, essential for calcium absorption.
• Exhibits flexibility, allowing for growth and self-repair.

Structure of the Skin

• Epidermis: Outermost skin layer; serves as a waterproof barrier and determines skin tone.
• Dermis: Located beneath the epidermis; composed of tough connective tissue, houses hair follicles, sweat glands, and blood vessels.
• Hypodermis (Subcutaneous Tissue): Deepest layer; made of fat and connective tissue, anchoring skin to underlying structures.
• Accessory structures include hair, nails, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands.

Sweat Glands

• Eccrine Sweat Glands: Major sweat glands found in nearly all skin, particularly dense in palms, soles, and forehead; involved in thermoregulation.
• Apocrine Sweat Glands: Associated with hair follicles; secrete a fatty sweat into the gland duct, often activated during stress or sexual arousal.

Sebaceous Glands

• Microscopic exocrine glands that secrete sebum, an oily substance.
• Sebum lubricates and waterproofs both the skin and hair, promoting hydration.

Functions of the Skeletal System

• Protects and supports vital organs within the body.
• Provides a framework for muscular attachment, facilitating movement.
• Responsible for hematopoiesis (blood cell production) within bone marrow.
• Functions as a storage site for minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus.

Connective Tissue Types

• Classified into two main categories: soft connective tissue and specialized connective tissue.
• Each type plays distinct roles in the structure and function of various bodily systems.