Integumentary System Flashcard

Front

What is the Stratum basale?

Back

The deepest layer of the epidermis that is actively mitotic and attaches to the basal lamina.

Front

What is the Stratum corneum?

Back

The outermost layer of the epidermis composed of dead, keratinized cells that are continuously shed.

Front

What are Melanocytes?

Back

Cells found in the Stratum basale that produce melanin, responsible for skin pigmentation.

Front

What are Langerhans cells?

Back

Immune cells found in the Stratum spinosum that help protect the skin from pathogens.

Front

What is the function of Arrector pili muscles?

Back

Muscles that cause goosebumps when the body is cold or frightened by contracting and pulling hair follicles.

Front

What is the Stratum granulosum?

Back

A layer of the epidermis where keratinocytes begin to lose their nuclei and become more flattened.

Front

What is the Stratum lucidum?

Back

A thin, clear layer of dead skin cells found only in thick skin areas like the palms and soles.

Front

What is keratinization?

Back

The process by which keratinocytes fill with keratin and die, forming a protective barrier in the skin.

Front

What is the role of sebaceous glands?

Back

Glands that secrete sebum, an oily substance that lubricates and waterproofs the skin.

Front

What is the basal lamina?

Back

A thin layer of extracellular matrix that separates the epidermis from the underlying dermis.