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Integumentary System - Anatomy & Physiology

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  • What are the main components of the integumentary system?
    The integumentary system consists of the skin, hair, glands, and nails.
  • What percentage of total body weight does the integumentary system account for?
    It accounts for 10-15% of total body weight.
  • List the primary functions of the integumentary system.
    Protection, sensation, thermoregulation, excretion, and vitamin D synthesis.
  • How does the integumentary system protect the body?
    The epidermis forms a durable, flexible surface protecting against mechanical trauma, pathogens, UV radiation, and water loss.
  • What role do sensory receptors in the skin play?
    They detect environmental changes, aiding in homeostasis.
  • How does the skin contribute to thermoregulation when body temperature rises?
    Blood vessels in the dermis dilate and sweat glands release sweat to promote heat loss.
  • What happens in the skin when body temperature falls?
    Blood vessels constrict to conserve heat and sweat production decreases.
  • Name the five layers (strata) of the epidermis.
    Stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, stratum lucidum, and stratum corneum.
  • Which epidermal layer contains stem cells and produces vitamin D precursor?
    The stratum basale.
  • What is the function of the stratum granulosum?
    It releases lipid-based substances that create a hydrophobic barrier.
  • Where is the stratum lucidum found and what is its characteristic?
    Found only in thick skin, it is a clear layer of dead keratinocytes.
  • What cells in the epidermis provide immune protection?
    Dendritic (Langerhans) cells in the stratum spinosum.
  • Which cells produce melanin pigment and where are they located?
    Melanocytes located in the stratum basale.
  • What distinguishes thick skin from thin skin?
    Thick skin has all five strata including stratum lucidum, a thick stratum corneum, and lacks hair follicles.
  • What are the two main layers of the dermis?
    The papillary layer (loose connective tissue) and the reticular layer (dense irregular connective tissue).
  • What structures are found in the papillary layer of the dermis?
    Dermal papillae with capillaries and sensory receptors.
  • What is the function of epidermal ridges?
    They enhance grip and create unique fingerprint patterns.
  • Name the three common fingerprint patterns.
    Loop, arch, and whorl.
  • How do sweat pores relate to fingerprint patterns?
    Sweat pores open along epidermal ridges, leaving unique prints.
  • What is the role of Merkel cells in the epidermis?
    They are sensory receptors for light touch found in the stratum basale.