Anatomy & Physiology Functions of the Skin Pigmentation

Functions of the Skin 1.Sensory perception  Nerves respond to pain, temp., pressure 2.Temp. regulator  Sweat glands cool the body  Blood vessels dilate (heat) & contract (cold) 3.Storage  Temporary storage of fat, glucose, water, salts

Functions of the Skin 4. Protect  Barrier to UV rays & pathogens  Holds in moisture / prevents deep tissue from drying 5. Absorption  Absorbs certain chemicals through the skins 6. Excretion  Eliminates salt / excess water 7. Production  Produces Vitamin D (from sun)

Pigmentation Albino – Absence of skin color – Skin is a pinkish tint with white or yellow hair – Eyes lack pigment (red / pink) – Extremely sensitive to sunlight

Jaundice – Yellowish color of the skin – Common in newborns – Occurs in adults (due to disease of the liver)

Erythema – Reddish color of the skin – Caused by burns / irritation Cyanosis – Bluish color of the skin – Lack of oxygen