Skin Structure & Function Flashcards

Questions and Answers

Describe the reticular layer.

The reticular layer is the deeper of the two layers of the dermis, made up of dense connective tissue with significant amounts of collagen, elastin, and reticular fibers. It is thicker than the papillary layer and contains hair follicles, sebaceous glands, sweat glands, and blood vessels.

Describe the subcutaneous tissue.

Subcutaneous tissue is the loose layer of connective tissue beneath the dermis, mainly composed of collagenous, elastic, and reticular fibers that help maintain the body's shape and keep various systems separate.

Explain the overall function of the skin.

The skin protects internal organs from environmental factors, helps maintain body temperature, and acts as a barrier against microorganisms. It also has the ability to repel water and is the largest organ of the human body.

Describe the papillary layer.

The papillary layer is the outermost layer of the dermis, thinner than the reticular layer, and contains structures called papillae that connect it to the epidermis, supplying nutrients to skin cells and forming fingerprints. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the dermis in general terms. Include the names of its two layers in your answer.

The dermis is the major layer of skin beneath the epidermis, thicker than the epidermis and composed mainly of connective tissues. Its two main layers are the papillary region and the reticular region. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the function of the papillary layer.

The papillary layer manages body temperature and transmits nutrients to the epidermis through a complex system of blood vessels. Signup and view all the answers

Describe excretion and secretion.

Excretion refers to the removal of waste materials and toxins from the body, while secretion involves the emission of chemicals from the skin that support bodily functions, such as sweat and oil. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the classifications of nerves.

The three classifications of nerves are motor, sensory, and secretory. Motor nerves carry sensations to the skin, sensory nerves convey information to the brain, and secretory nerves manage sweat and oil secretion. Signup and view all the answers

Name the six functions of the skin.

The skin produces sebum, maintains body temperature, evacuates toxins through sweat, absorbs helpful substances, protects internal organs, and contains nerve endings for touch. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the skin's role in defending the body.

The skin protects against ultraviolet radiation with melanin, prevents harmful materials from entering the bloodstream, and repels harmful substances through sebum. Signup and view all the answers

Discuss the heat regulation function of skin.

The skin regulates body temperature by secreting sweat to cool down and dilating blood vessels to release heat. When body temperature drops, blood vessels contract to conserve heat. Signup and view all the answers

Define and explain sebaceous glands.

Sebaceous glands secrete sebum, which lubricates and protects the hair and skin. They are located at the base of hair follicles and are found all over the body except on the palms and soles. Signup and view all the answers

Explain a skin analysis and how it is performed.

A skin analysis is conducted to determine skin type and condition, typically using a magnifying lamp and thorough examination. It involves cleaning the skin and asking the patient about their habits and skin care. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the terms: chloasma and melasma.

Chloasma is a liver spot where skin pigmentation increases, while melasma is a darkening of the complexion that occurs particularly in pregnant women, often referred to as the mask of pregnancy. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Skin Structure and Functions

The reticular layer is a thick part of the dermis, composed of dense connective tissue rich in collagen, elastin, and reticular fibers, providing strength and flexibility.
This layer houses hair follicles, sebaceous glands, sweat glands, and blood vessels, playing a vital role in skin structure.
Subcutaneous tissue lies beneath the dermis, consisting of loose connective tissue and often containing a layer of fat, which provides flexibility and shape while separating body systems.
The skin is the body's largest organ, protecting internal organs and maintaining body temperature through sweat excretion; keratin and oils repel water and microorganisms.
The papillary layer makes up the outer dermis and is thinner than the reticular layer, characterized by tiny tubular structures (papillae) that nourish the epidermis and form fingerprints.
The dermis beneath the epidermis contains sweat and sebaceous glands, nerve endings, and blood vessels, serving as a protective infrastructure for the integumentary system.
Functionally, the papillary layer is crucial for temperature regulation and nutrient transfer, featuring a network of blood vessels and tactile sensations.
Skin excretion removes waste and toxins through pores, while secretion emits substances like sweat and oils, which protect against water damage.

Nerves Classifications and Functions

Nerves are classified into three main types: motor nerves (sensation to skin), sensory nerves (information to the spinal cord and brain), and secretory nerves (regulating sweat and oil secretion).

Core Functions of the Skin

Functions of the skin include:
- Sebum production to lubricate skin.
- Temperature regulation through sweat and blood flow adjustments.
- Toxin evacuation via perspiration.
- Absorption of beneficial substances.
- Protection from external elements and bacteria.
- Containing nerve endings for touch sensations.

Skin Defense Mechanisms

The skin protects against ultraviolet radiation through melanin, allowing a safe amount for vitamin D synthesis.
Blood vessel networks in the skin are barriers against harmful substances entering the bloodstream.

Heat Regulation Mechanism

Normal body temperature is approximately 98.6°F; when elevated, sweat and blood vessel dilation cool the body, whereas vasoconstriction conserves heat when body temperature is low.

Sebaceous Glands Overview

Sebaceous glands secrete sebum, a mixture of fat and dead cells that lubricate skin and hair, commonly overproducing in adolescents, leading to blemishes, and are found all over the body except on palms and soles.

Skin Analysis Process

A skin analysis is performed using a magnifying lamp to assess skin type and condition, accompanied by a thorough cleansing and lifestyle inquiries to tailor skin treatment products.

Skin Abnormalities

Chloasma refers to liver spots with increased pigmentation, often seen in the elderly, resulting from damaged proteins and fats.
Melasma is darkened skin, frequently occurring in pregnant women (also known as the mask of pregnancy) or those on hormonal treatments.

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Description

Explore the key components of skin structure, focusing on the reticular layer of the dermis. This set of flashcards will help you understand the functions and abnormalities associated with this crucial part of the skin. Ideal for students studying dermatology or skin biology.