The integumentary system is an organ system that includes the skin and accessory structures. The skin is very important for maintaining homeostasis through:
The Epidermis is the outermost layer of skin and is composed of stratified squamos epithelium but has multiple layers:
The dermis is the middle layer of skin and is composed of dense irregular tissue which is abundant in collagen and elastic fibers. Its dermal blood vessels contribute to the maintenance of the proper body temperature and its sensory receptors relay information to the brain and spinal cord from the environment. The dermis also contains blood vessels, nerves, glands, and smooth muscle. the nerve cells and sensory receptors allow for a two-way communication between the skin and central nervous system.
The hypodermis is the deepest layer of skin and is also known as the subcutaneous layer. Loose connective tissue and adipose tissue make up the hypodermis. the hypodermis not only binds the skin to underlying organs but it also insulates.
- Thermoregulation: Helps control the temperature of the body
- Protection: Acts as a barrier against foreign pathogens
- Prevention: Prevents the loss of water from deep tissues
- Has sensory receptors
- Synthesizes: Skin cells synthesize Vitamin D, melanin, etc.
The Epidermis is the outermost layer of skin and is composed of stratified squamos epithelium but has multiple layers:
- Stratum corneum
- Stratum lucidum (thick skin only)
- Stratum granulosum
- Stratum spinosum
- Stratum basale
The dermis is the middle layer of skin and is composed of dense irregular tissue which is abundant in collagen and elastic fibers. Its dermal blood vessels contribute to the maintenance of the proper body temperature and its sensory receptors relay information to the brain and spinal cord from the environment. The dermis also contains blood vessels, nerves, glands, and smooth muscle. the nerve cells and sensory receptors allow for a two-way communication between the skin and central nervous system.
The hypodermis is the deepest layer of skin and is also known as the subcutaneous layer. Loose connective tissue and adipose tissue make up the hypodermis. the hypodermis not only binds the skin to underlying organs but it also insulates.