Functions of the Integumentary System
D vitamin synthesis
Elimination of wastes through perspiration
Regulation of body
temperature through perspiration
Makes information about the
environment available to the brain
Acts as a barrier to moisture
loss, harmful light rays, and invasion of microbes
Structures of the Integumentary System
Epidermis and Dermis
Epidermis:
Thin outer layer of skin (what we see) that is avascular.
Dermis:
A thick layer under the epidermis.
Subcutaneous adipose tissue
a layer composed of fat that serves as insulation and cushioning, under the dermis layer.
Keratin
protein, the primary component of non-living cells that makes up the epidermis.
In embryology, dermatome refers to:
a layer in early human development that gives rise to the dermal layers of the skin.
In surgery, a dermatome
an instrument used to cut thin slices of skin for grafting.
In anatomy and physiology
a dermatome refers to the skin surface area innervated (supplied) by a spinal nerve.
Accessory skin structures:
hair, nails, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands.