Learning Objectives Define integumentary system terminology Describe the function of the integumentary system Identify integumentary system structures and the function of each Identify methods used to assess the integumentary system Describe disorders of the integumentary system Describe three methods that can be used to maintain healthy skin Identify three types of skin CA and at least five methods for prevention

Structure The Integumentary system is composed of: * Skin – main organ * Accessory structures - Hair, Nails, Specialized glands, & Nerves

Function Functions of the integumentary system: Main function: - Protects the other body systems from injury and infection Other functions: Helps the body maintain homeostasis by regulating temperature, retaining body fluids, and eliminating wastes Perceive environment with sensory receptors Store energy & Vitamins / produce Vitamin D from sun

Structures of the Skin

Skin The largest organ of the body Varies in thickness from 1/50 inch (0.5 mm) in the eyelids to 1/4 inch (6.3 mm) in the soles of the feet Changes in the skin often indicate the presence of other body system disorders including anemia, respiratory disorders, liver disorders, cancer, and shock

Layers of Skin Epidermis (cuticle): Outermost layer of the skin Composed of a surface of dead cells with an underlying layer of living cells Keratinocytes make up 90% -water repellant Contains sebaceous and sudoriferous glands as well as hair follicles Melanocytes (produces melanin) are located in the epidermis Melanin: pigment that gives skin its color

Layers of Skin (cont) The surface of the epidermis is covered with a film composed of: - Oil - Sweat - Epithelial cells Together these work to: - Lubricate - Hydrate - Provide antibacterial protection - Block toxic agents from entering the body

Layers of Skin (Continued) Dermis (corium) Called the “true” skin Contains the blood vessels and nerves Each inch of skin contains 15 feet of blood vessels Nerve endings in skin allow it to be sensitive to environmental stimuli Subcutaneous Innermost layer Contains adipose, which cushions and insulates the body’s organs

Hair and Hair Follicles Skin has hair in all areas except the soles of the feet and palms of the hands Hair blocks foreign particles from entering the body through structures such as the nose and eyes Originate in the dermis The visible portion is called the shaft The hair follicle is the root with its covering Tiny muscle attached at hair shaft causes “goose bumps” in response to cold or fear Hair color & texture are inherited

Glands Three types of glands in the skin: Sebaceous glands (oil) Located everywhere except palms of hands and soles of feet Sebum (oil) causes the skin to be soft and waterproof Sudoriferous glands (sweat) Help regulate the body temperature and excrete body wastes Ceruminous glands Located only in the auditory canal of the ear Secrete wax that helps protect the ear from infection and prevents entry of foreign bodies

Assessment Techniques

Assessment of the Skin Dermatology: Study of the Skin Dermatitis: general term for inflammation of the skin Skin disorders are generally uncomfortable & unattractive but not life threatening

Assessment of the Skin Visual Inspection: - Skin lesions can usually be seen - Size, shape, texture & color of a lesion often help reveal it’s cause Biopsy: - Removal or examination of living tissue - Biopsy or culture may be used to identify the causative organism