The Integumentary System[edit | edit source] Show
The integumentary system is the largest organ of the body that forms a physical barrier between the external environment and the internal environment that it serves to protect and maintain. The integumentary system includes
In addition to its barrier function, this system performs many intricate functions such as body temperature regulation, cell fluid maintenance, synthesis of Vitamin D, and detection of stimuli. The various components of this system work in conjunction to carry out these functions[1]. General Function[edit | edit source]The integumentary system has several functions that provide several purposes[2]:
Organ Systems Involved[edit | edit source]Skin[edit | edit source]
Epidermis:
Image: Overview of the integumentary system[4] Composed of stratified squamous epithelial cells that further break down into four to five layers (see image R). From superficial to deep, the primary layers are the
Dermis
Further subdivides into two layers
Pathophysiology and Injury eg
Hypodermis[edit | edit source]The hypodermis lies between the dermis and underlying organs.
Hair[edit | edit source]Hair is a component of the integumentary system and extends downward into the dermal layer where it sits in the hair follicle.
Nail[edit | edit source]
Associated Glands[edit | edit source]Four types of exocrine glands within human skin—Sweat, sebaceous, ceruminous, and mammary glands. Sweat glands, are further divided into eccrine and apocrine glands.
Sebaceous glands are part of the pilosebaceous unit, which includes the hair, hair follicle, and arrector pili muscle.
Pathophysiology eg Seborrheic dermatitis, Hyperhidrosis Conclusion[edit | edit source]The integumentary system provides numerous functions necessary for human life while also maintaining an optimal internal environment for other critical components to thrive.
References[edit | edit source]
What 5 things are a part of the integumentary system?The integumentary system includes the epidermis, dermis, hypodermis, associated glands, hair, and nails.
What are the 4 types of glands in the integumentary system?Four types of exocrine glands within human skin—Sweat, sebaceous, ceruminous, and mammary glands. Sweat glands, are further divided into eccrine and apocrine glands. Eccrine glands are distributed throughout the body and primarily produce serous fluid to regulate body temperature.
Which part of the integumentary system is made up of layers?Structure and Function
The skin is primarily made up of three layers. The upper layer is the epidermis, the layer below the epidermis is the dermis, and the third and deepest layer is the subcutaneous tissue. The epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, provides a waterproof barrier and contributes to skin tone.
What are the parts of integumentary system and its function?The organs that make up the integumentary system include skin, hair, nails, glands, and sensory nerves. The system's primary function is to protect the body from harm, but it also assists in other ways, such as in waste product elimination and retaining important bodily fluids.
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