Integumentary System
The Integumentary System
The integumentary system includes the skin and its
associated structures such as sweat glands, sebaceous
glands, hair, and nails. It plays a crucial role in protecting the
body from external harm, regulating temperature, and
providing sensory information.
1. The Skin and Subcutaneous Tissues
The skin, also known as the integument, is the largest organ
of the body, covering an area of approximately 1.5–2.0
square meters in adults. It accounts for about 15% of the
total body weight and consists of two main layers:
A. The Epidermis
The outermost layer of the skin.
Made up of stratified squamous epithelium.
Avascular, meaning it does not have its own blood supply; it
depends on the underlying dermis for nutrients.
Contains specialized cells such as:
Keratinocytes: Produce keratin, a tough, protective protein.
Melanocytes: Produce melanin, the pigment responsible for
skin color.
Langerhans cells: Part of the immune system, providing
defense against pathogens.
Merkel cells: Associated with sensory perception.
B. The Dermis
Lies beneath the epidermis and is much thicker.
Composed of dense connective tissue, providing strength
and elasticity.
Highly vascular, supplying nutrients to both the dermis and
epidermis.
Contains:
Blood vessels: Help in thermoregulation.
Nerves and sensory receptors: Detect touch, pressure,
pain, and temperature.
Hair follicles and sebaceous glands.
Sweat glands: Play a role in temperature regulation and
excretion.
Collagen and elastin fibers: Provide tensile strength and
elasticity.
C.Subcutaneous Tissue (Hypodermis)
Located beneath the dermis.
Consists of loose connective tissue and fat.
Functions:
Acts as a cushion to absorb shocks.
Provides insulation to regulate body temperature.
Serves as an energy reservoir due to its fat content.
2. Layers of Skin
The skin is composed of two primary layers and several sub-
layers, each with specific functions.
A. Epidermis Layers
The epidermis is stratified into five distinct layers (from
outermost to innermost):
1. Stratum Corneum
Composed of dead keratinized cells.
Provides a tough, waterproof barrier.
2. Stratum Lucidum (present only in thick skin)
Found in areas like the palms and soles.
3. Stratum Granulosum
Contains keratinocytes with keratohyalin granules.
Plays a role in waterproofing the skin.
4. Stratum Spinosum
Known as the “prickle cell layer.”
Cells are linked by desmosomes, providing strength and
flexibility.
5. Stratum Basale (Stratum Germinativum)
The deepest layer.
Contains basal cells that undergo mitosis to produce new
keratinocytes.
B. Dermis Layers
The dermis has two layers:
1. Papillary Layer
The upper, thinner layer.
Composed of loose connective tissue.
Contains dermal papillae, which interlock with the epidermis,
enhancing the strength of the skin.
2. Reticular Layer
The lower, thicker layer.
Composed of dense irregular connective tissue.
Contains large blood vessels, collagen fibers, and sweat
glands.
Functions of Skin;
Protection: Shields against mechanical damage, pathogens,
and UV radiation.
Sensation: Detects touch, pressure, pain, and temperature.
Thermoregulation: Maintains body temperature via sweat
glands and blood vessels.
Excretion: Eliminates waste products through sweat.
Vitamin D Synthesis: Produces vitamin D upon exposure to
sunlight.
