Integumentary System

Components of the Skin

size

location

contrast to mucous membranes

layers

epidermis

keratinocytes

specializations

keratin

melanocytes

melanin

APCs (antigen-presenting cells)

dermis

fibers

collagen & elastin

nerve endings

Pacinian corpuscles

capillaries

adnexal structures

follicles

hair bulb

hair root

hair shaft

nails

hair bed

lunula

eponychium & hyponychium

glands

sebaceous glands

eccrine sweat glands

apocrine sweat glands

mammary glands

Homeostasis

protective barrier

regulation of body temperature

sensory reception

water balance

synthesis of vitamins & hormones

absorption of materials

Sensory reception

nociceptors

pressure

Pacinian corpuscles

light touch

Meissner’s corpuscles

temperature

hot & cold

Synthetic activities

pigments

melanin

carotene

aids in formation of vitamin D₃

Selective permeability

fat-soluble substances

vitamins A, D, E, & K

steroids, such as estrogen

use of patches to deliver drugs through the skin

estrogen

scopolamine

nitroglycerin

nicotine

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