Integumentary System

Front

What is the Integumentary System?

Back

The Integumentary System is the organ system that includes the skin, hair, nails, and glands, serving as a protective barrier for the body and playing roles in sensation, temperature regulation, and vitamin D synthesis.

Front

What are the main layers of the skin?

Back

The skin consists of three main layers: the epidermis (outer layer), the dermis (middle layer), and the hypodermis (subcutaneous layer).

Front

What is the primary function of the epidermis?

Back

The primary function of the epidermis is to provide a protective barrier against environmental hazards, pathogens, and water loss.

Front

What role do melanocytes play in the skin?

Back

Melanocytes are cells in the epidermis that produce melanin, a pigment that helps protect the skin from UV radiation and contributes to skin color.

Front

What is keratin and its function in the skin?

Back

Keratin is a fibrous protein produced by keratinocytes in the epidermis that provides strength and waterproofing to the skin.

Front

What are the two layers of the dermis?

Back

The dermis is composed of two layers: the papillary layer (upper layer with loose connective tissue) and the reticular layer (deeper layer with dense connective tissue).

Front

What is the function of sweat glands?

Back

Sweat glands help regulate body temperature through the secretion of sweat, which cools the body as it evaporates.

Front

What is the role of sebaceous glands?

Back

Sebaceous glands produce sebum, an oily substance that lubricates and waterproofs the skin and hair.

Front

What is the hypodermis?

Back

The hypodermis, also known as the subcutaneous layer, is the layer of fat and connective tissue beneath the dermis that insulates the body and absorbs shock.

Front

What is the significance of the reticular layer of the dermis?

Back

The reticular layer contains dense connective tissue, providing strength and elasticity to the skin, and houses larger blood vessels, nerves, and glands.