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Integumentary System - Anatomy & Physiology

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  • What are the two major parts of the integumentary system?
    Cutaneous membrane (epidermis and dermis) and accessory structures (hair, glands, nails).
  • What percentage of body weight does the integumentary system represent?
    Approximately 16% of body weight.
  • What are the main functions of the integumentary system?
    Protection, excretion, temperature regulation, melanin and keratin production, lipid storage, sensory detection, immune response, and vitamin D3 synthesis.
  • What are the three layers of the skin?
    Epidermis, Dermis, and Subcutaneous layer.
  • What type of epithelium composes the epidermis?
    The epidermis is made of stratified squamous epithelium.
  • What are keratinocytes?
    The most abundant epithelial cells in the epidermis that produce keratin.
  • Difference between thin and thick skin?
    Thin skin has 4 layers of keratinocytes and covers most of the body; thick skin has 5 layers and covers palms and soles.
  • What is the function of the stratum basale?
    It produces new keratinocytes, contains melanocytes for pigment, and Merkel cells for touch detection.
  • What cells are found in the stratum spinosum?
    Keratinocytes connected by desmosomes and dendritic (Langerhans) cells for immune defense.
  • What happens in the stratum granulosum?
    Keratinocytes begin keratinization and form a water-resistant barrier.
  • Where is the stratum lucidum found and what is its function?
    Only in thick skin; it adds extra protection and reduces friction.
  • What is the role of the stratum corneum?
    It protects against abrasion, pathogens, and water loss with multiple layers of dead keratinized cells.
  • What is Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) and its functions?
    A peptide growth factor that promotes basal cell division, keratin production, epidermal repair, and glandular secretion.
  • What layers compose the dermis?
    The papillary layer (superficial) and the reticular layer (deep).
  • What is the subcutaneous layer composed of?
    Primarily adipose tissue that stores lipids and provides insulation.
  • What is the function of melanocytes in the epidermis?
    They produce melanin which protects underlying tissues from UV radiation.
  • How does the epidermis receive nutrients and oxygen?
    By diffusion from capillaries located in the dermis.
  • What sensory functions does the integumentary system provide?
    Detection of touch, pressure, pain, vibration, and temperature stimuli.
  • What is the role of the subpapillary plexus?
    A network of blood vessels in the dermis that supplies the skin and helps regulate temperature.
  • What accessory structures originate in the dermis?
    Hair follicles, exocrine glands, and nails.