INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM
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Integumentary System
The largest organ system
This includes the skin and its appendages
Function: (1) serve to waterproof, cushion and protect the deeper tissues; (2) excrete wastes; (3) regulate temperature, (4) attachment site for sensory receptors to detect pain, sensation, pressure and temperature, and (4) storage of water, fat, glucose and Vitamin D
In humans, the integumentary system additionally provides Vitamin D synthesis.
The top layer of skin made up of epithelial cells.
Does not contain blood vessels
Function: for protection, absorption of nutrients and homeostasis
Structure: keratinized stratified squamous epithelium
EPIDERMIS
Layers of the Epidermis1. Stratum basale single layer of cells resting on a
basement membrane Cells of this layer divide
continuously2. Stratum spinosum Consists of spiny prickle cells that
interlock to support the skin3. Stratum granulosum Middle layer that initiates
keratinization4. Stratum lucidum Protects skin against ultraviolet rays
damage Thick layer appears only in
frequently used areas such as palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
5. Stratum corneum Outermost layer with rows of dead
cells. Protects the underlying cells from
drying out.
The middle layer of the skin, composed of loose collective tissues such as collagen with elastin arranged in a diffusely bundled and woven pattern.
The dermal layer provides a site for the endings of blood vessels and nerves.
Many chromatophores are also stored in this layer as bases of integumental structures such as hair, feathers and glands (sweat and oil).
DERMIS
HYPODERMIS Subcutaneous layer,
superficial fascia or subdermis
Physiological function:
(1) Insulation;
(2) storage of energy;
(3) aid in anchoring the skin and
(4) gives extra protection against trauma.
Diseases and Disorders
Albinism – a condition where skin does not produce melanin
Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) – common fungus infection in which the skin between the toes becomes itchy and sore, cracking and peeling away.
Acne – skin disease marked by pimples on the face, chest and back.
Burns – these are injuries to tissues caused by intense heat, electricity, UV radiation or certain acids
Wart – small growth caused by a viral infection of the skin. This is contagious.
Chronic paronychia –One nail folds but often spreads to several others. Nails become tender from time to time and sometimes a little thick pus can be expressed from under the cuticle.
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