The Integumentary System
Integumentary Structure and Function
Integumentary Structure and Function
Function of the integument includes:
Physical protection
Regulation of body temperature
Excretion (secretion)
Nutrition (synthesis)
Sensation
Immune defense
Integumentary Structure and Function
Skin, or the cutaneous membrane, has two subdivisions:
Epidermis
is the stratified squamous epithelium.Dermis = CT.
Subcutaneous layer = loose CT and Adipose
Shock absorbing, insulating, storage
Accessory structures
: hair, nails, exocrine glands, and sensory nervesIntegumentary Structure and Function
The Epidermis
Keratinocytes are the most abundant cells in the epidermis.
At least four different cell layers
Skin color
Melanocytes, carotene & blood
Merkel cells
Langerhans cells
Layers of the Epidermis
Thick and Thin Skin
The Dermis and Subcutaneous Layer
Dermis
Layers
Papillary: finger prints
Reticular
Blood Supply
Cutaneous Plexus
Papillary Plexus
Thermo Regulation
Dermal Organization and the
Subcutaneous Layer
Accessory Structures
Hair follicles and hair:
Functions
Hair root plexus
Types
Vellus
Intermediate
Terminal
Color
Growth and replacement
Glands in the Skin
Nails
Local Control of Integumentary Function
The integument is able to respond independently of the endocrine system and nervous system.
Mechanical stress can trigger stem cell divisions resulting in calluses.
Regeneration occurs after damage.
The inability to completely heal after severe damage may result in acellular scar tissue.
Aging and the Integumentary System