Skin Functions and Structure

What percentage of an adult human's total body weight does skin account for?

Which function of the skin is primarily involved in preventing excessive loss of water by evaporation?

What is the outermost layer of the epidermis called?

Which of the following is a function of the skin related to temperature?

Which layer of the skin is responsible for the sensation of touch and pressure?

What is the primary purpose of the epidermis's cornified layer?

Which component of the skin is involved in the synthesis of Vitamin D?

What structure is absent in the epidermis found on the palms and soles?

What is the primary function of the Malpighian layer?

What causes the skin to appear pinkish in individuals with albinism?

What is a characteristic of the dermis layer of the skin?

How does the skin pigment melanin function under sunlight exposure?

What distinguishes leucoderma from albinism?

Which sensation is primarily associated with nerve endings in the dermis?

What is the role of the papillae in the dermis?

What function does subcutaneous fat serve beneath the dermis?

Skin - The Jack of All Trades

Skin is the largest organ, making up 15% of an adult's body weight.
It's the outermost layer, forming a protective barrier.

Functions of Skin

Protection:
- Shields underlying tissues from impacts.
- Prevents water loss through evaporation.
- Blocks harmful substances and germs.
- Protects against excessive UV light.
Sensation:
- Detects touch, pain, pressure, and temperature.
Temperature Regulation:
- Prevents heat loss in cold environments.
- Facilitates heat loss in warm environments.
Storage:
- Stores fat in specialized cells.
Excretion:
- Eliminates water, salts, and urea through sweat.
Synthesis:
- (Not further detailed in provided text)
Grip:
- Ridges and grooves on palms and fingers enhance grip.

Structure of Skin (Epidermis)

Cornified Layer (Stratum Corneum):
- Outermost layer of flattened, dead cells.
- Made of keratin.
- Protects against damage, infection, and water loss.
Granular Layer (Stratum Granulosum):
- Middle layer.
- Contains cells that produce keratin.
Malpighian Layer (Stratum Malpighi or Germinative Layer):
- Innermost layer.
- Active cell division produces new skin cells.
- Contains melanin which determines skin color.

Skin Structure (Dermis)

Dermis:
- Thick layer of connective tissue.
- Contains nerve fibers, blood vessels, sensory receptors, hair follicles, and sweat glands.
- Contains elastic fibers for flexibility.
Subcutaneous Layer:
- Layer below the dermis containing fat.
- Provides insulation, shock absorption, and energy storage.

Abnormal Skin Conditions

Leucoderma/Vitiligo:
- Loss of skin pigmentation in patches.
- Cause unknown.
Albinism:
- Complete loss of pigmentation.
- Genetic trait.

Explore the various functions of the skin as the largest organ of the body, including its roles in protection, sensation, temperature regulation, storage, and excretion. Discover the structural details of the epidermis and its significance in everyday life.