Chapter 9

The Integumentary System

The integumentary system is the organ system that comprises the skin and its associated structures. It is the largest system in the human body and…

The epidermis is made of four or five layers of epithelial cells, depending on its location in the body. From deep to superficial, these layers are…

The epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, is composed of several distinct layers. From deep to superficial, the layers of the epidermis are as…

Dermis The dermis might be considered the "core" of the integumentary system, as distinct from the epidermis and hypodermis. It contains…

The papillary and reticular dermis are the two layers of the dermis. They are made of connective tissue with fibers of collagen extending from one to…

The hypodermis (the subcutaneous layer or superficial fascia) is present directly below the dermis. It connects the skin to the underlying fascia…

The color of the skin is influenced by a number of pigments, including melanin, carotene, and hemoglobin. Recall that melanin is produced by cells…

The first thing a clinician sees is the skin, so the examination of the skin should be part of any thorough physical examination. Most skin disorders…

Hair and hair follicles are integral components of the integumentary system. Hair is a filamentous structure composed mainly of a protein called…

Hair growth begins with the production of keratinocytes by the basal cells of the hair bulb. As new cells are deposited at the hair bulb, the hair…

Nails are one of the important accessory structures of the skin. They are hard, protective structures that cover the dorsal surface of the distal…

Sweat glands or sudoriferous glands are one of the important accessory structures of the skin. They are small, coiled tubular structures located in…

A sebaceous gland is a type of oil gland found almost all over the skin ( except palms and soles) and helps lubricate and waterproof the skin and…

The skin is the largest organ of the human body and plays a crucial role in our sensory perception. It contains a vast network of sensory receptors…

The skin plays a crucial role in the synthesis of vitamin D, a vital nutrient for various physiological processes in the body. Vitamin D is unique…

Skin is the first line of defense and encounters a variety of microbes. Some pathogenic strains are often the cause of a broad range of infections of…

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when there is an abnormal growth of skin cells, usually triggered by damage to the DNA within the skin…

Burn injuries occur when the skin and underlying tissues are damaged due to exposure to heat, electricity, chemicals, radiation, or friction. They…

A three-dimensional human epidermis model reconstructed from neonatal primary keratinocytes is presented. Herein, a protocol for the cultivation…

The loss of function of melanocytes leads to vitiligo, which seriously affects the physical and mental health of the affected individuals. Presently,…

Trivial superficial wounds heal without complications by primary intention. Deep wounds, such as full thickness burns, heal by secondary intention…