Integumentary System: Structure, Layers & Functions
The integumentary system comprises the skin, hair, nails, and glands (sweat, sebaceous). It is the body's largest organ system.
Skin Layers
- Epidermis: Outermost; keratinized stratified squamous epithelium; avascular; barrier function
- Dermis: Connective tissue; collagen/elastin; vascularized, innervated; contains follicles, glands
- Hypodermis (Subcutaneous): Adipose tissue; insulation, energy storage, cushioning
Appendages & Functions
- Hair: Thermoregulation, UV protection, sensory
- Nails: Distal digit protection, fine motor enhancement
- Sweat Glands (Eccrine): Thermoregulation via evaporative cooling
- Sebaceous Glands: Sebum → lubrication, antimicrobial
Key Roles
- Protection (mechanical, microbial, UV)
- Thermoregulation
- Sensation (touch, temperature, pain)
- Excretion (water, electrolytes, urea)
- Vitamin D synthesis (UVB)
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