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Integumentary System - Anatomy & Physiology

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  • Epidermis

    The top layer of skin that provides protection.

  • Keratinocyte

    The primary structural cell of the epidermis.

  • Melanocyte

    A star-shaped cell located in the deepest layer of the epidermis responsible for pigment production.

  • Stratum corneum

    The outermost surface layer of the epidermis composed of dead cells.

  • Stratum lucidum

    A thin, clear, translucent layer of dead skin cells found in thick skin.

  • Stratum granulosum

    The middle layer of the epidermis where cells have a grainy appearance.

  • Stratum spinosum

    The 'spiny layer' of the epidermis located above the basal layer.

  • Stratum basale

    The deepest single layer of the epidermis where new cells are generated.

  • Dermis

    Layer beneath the epidermis composed of papillary and reticular layers; supports and nourishes the epidermis and contains sensory receptors and blood vessels.

  • Dermal papillae

    Tiny nipple-like projections of the dermis that extend into the epidermis.

  • Pacinian (lamellated) corpuscle

    Large onion-shaped sensory receptor located deep in the dermis or hypodermis that detects pressure and vibration.

  • Meissner’s (tactile) corpuscle

    Small sensory nerve ending located high in the dermal papillae that detects light touch.

  • Hypodermis

    The bottom layer beneath the skin; not technically part of the integumentary system.

  • Sudoriferous (sweat) gland

    The gland responsible for producing sweat.

  • Sebaceous gland

    A small sac-like exocrine gland in the dermis that secretes sebum (oil).

  • Hair follicle

    Structure that protects the skull and provides delicate touch sensations on the body surface.

  • Nails

    Protect and support the tips of fingers and toes.

  • Arrector pili

    A tiny band of smooth muscle attached to the base of a hair follicle that causes hair to stand up.

  • Why is the integument considered an organ system?

    Because it consists of multiple tissues working together to perform life-sustaining functions.

  • Epidermal ridges

    Downward projections of the epidermis into the dermis that create unique patterns visible on fingerprints, palmprints, and footprints.

  • How are epidermal ridges used for identification?

    They are 100% unique to each person and remain permanent throughout life, making them reliable for identification.