Make sure that you are signed in or have rights to this area. You can also contact the site administrator if you don't have an account or have any questions. Show Site Administrator Back to Previous Page Visit Website Homepage The integumentary system is a complex and vitally important organ system in the human body. It comprises the skin, hair, nails, and glands that produce sweat and oil. These tissues work together to protect the body from infection and injury and regulate bodily processes. The skin is the first line of defense against the outside world and is responsible for keeping the internal organs safe and healthy. It contains sweat glands that help fight overheating and dehydration by releasing sweat onto the skin’s surface. It also supports hair that provides insulation against cold weather and nails to help protect the tips of fingers and toes from injury. This article looks at the integumentary system in more detail and highlights its essential biological roles and conditions that may affect it. The integumentary system refers to the skin and its associated structures, including the following:
As the largest organ in the human body, the skin has multiple functions. These include:
SkinThe skin is the body’s largest and heaviest organ. It covers the entire surface of the body and has multiple layers, each with different functions. It comprises three main layers:
Its purpose is to protect the body from infection and injury, regulate body temperature, and eliminate waste. The skin is the first line of defense against infections from pathogens as it is a physical barrier and contains elements of the innate and adaptive immune systems. GlandsGlands are functional units of cells that work in unison to release a substance, such as oil or sweat. There are two types of glands in the body. Endocrine glands do not have a duct system and instead release their products directly into the bloodstream. In contrast, the skin houses various exocrine glands that have ducts to allow them to secrete substances to the epithelial surface. These exocrine glands include:
HairHairs are slender, thread-like structures that extend from the epidermis. They are composed of a protein called keratin and are usually pigmented, which gives them their color. All areas of the body have hair, except for the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Hairs protect against UV radiation, injuries, and extreme temperatures. They also play a role in sensation as they contain nerve endings that can detect touch, pressure, and temperature. NailsNails are hard, protective structures covering the upper surface of the fingertips and toes. They are composed of a protein called keratin and grow from the base of the nail bed. Nails protect the tips of the fingers and toes from injury and support fine motor tasks such as picking up small objects. The skin, hair, nails, and glands work harmoniously to protect the body from harm and maintain homeostasis. The integumentary system works with the following bodily systems:
Various conditions can affect the integumentary system. AcneAcne is a common condition that causes spots, pimples, and blackheads. It is most common in teenagers. However, it can occur at any age. Acne occurs when the pores of the skin become blocked with sebum, bacteria, and dead skin cells. Athlete’s footAthlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes itching, redness, and blisters on the feet. It is most commonly caused by wearing shoes that do not allow the skin on the feet to breathe. Skin cancerSkin cancer is the most common type of cancer. It can be due to overexposure to UV radiation from the sun or sunbeds. Skin cancer may appear as a discolored, scaly, and crusty skin patch. Cold soresA cold sore is a small, painful blister on the lips or around the mouth caused by the herpes simplex virus. Cold sores are contagious. PsoriasisPsoriasis is a chronic condition that causes the skin to produce new skin cells too quickly. This leads to the buildup of scaly, red, and itchy patches of skin. RingwormRingworm is a fungal infection that causes a ring-shaped rash on the skin. It is most common on the body, scalp, or feet and is contagious. The integumentary system is composed of the skin, hair, nails, and glands. It works to protect the body from harm and maintain homeostasis by working with other bodily systems. Various conditions can affect the integumentary system, including acne, athlete’s foot, skin cancer, cold sores, psoriasis, and ringworm. What function does the integumentary and the skeletal system share?Answer and Explanation: Both the integumentary system and the skeletal system provide structure to the body. The skeletal system performs this function by providing the body with its general shape and allowing movement at locations known as joints.
How does the integumentary system protect the skeletal system?Periosteum: The periosteum is a tough membrane that covers and protects the outside of the bone. Compact bone: Below the periosteum, compact bone is white, hard, and smooth. It provides structural support and protection.
How does the integumentary system work with other body systems?The skin and other parts of the integumentary system work with other organ systems to maintain homeostasis. The skin works with the immune system to defend the body from pathogens by serving as a physical barrier to microorganisms. Vitamin D is needed by the digestive system to absorb calcium from food.
What is integumentary and skeletal system?Integumentary system – the skin, hair, nails, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands (secreting an oily or waxy substance). Musculoskeletal system – the skeleton and muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage.
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