7 Label the integumentary structures and areas indicated in the diagram na folle eccrine sweat gland noir Shaft – epidem Arrector pill! muscle the layers of the epidermis in thick skin. Then, complete the statements that follow Stratun Stratum – stratur • stratu • Stratu
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The integumentary system comprises the skin and its associated structures, including hair follicles, sweat glands, and muscles. Understanding the anatomy of these components is essential for comprehending skin function and health.
Hair Follicle and Associated Structures:
- Hair Follicle: A tubular structure embedded in the dermis that produces hair. It consists of the hair bulb, where hair growth occurs, and the hair shaft, which extends above the skin surface. (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
- Arrector Pili Muscle: A small bundle of smooth muscle fibers attached to the hair follicle. Contraction of this muscle causes the hair to stand erect, resulting in “goosebumps.” (en.wikipedia.org)
- Sebaceous Gland: Located adjacent to the hair follicle, this gland secretes sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the hair and skin. (en.wikipedia.org)
Eccrine Sweat Gland:
- Structure: Eccrine sweat glands are coiled tubular structures located in the dermis. They have a duct that opens directly onto the skin surface through a pore. (open.oregonstate.education)
- Function: These glands produce a watery secretion primarily composed of water and electrolytes, playing a crucial role in thermoregulation by cooling the body through evaporation. (open.oregonstate.education)
Layers of the Epidermis in Thick Skin:
Thick skin, found on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, consists of five layers:
- Stratum Basale (Stratum Germinativum): The deepest layer, consisting of a single row of cuboidal or columnar cells that continuously divide to form new cells. (open.oregonstate.education)
- Stratum Spinosum: Composed of several layers of keratinocytes connected by desmosomes, providing strength and flexibility. (open.oregonstate.education)
- Stratum Granulosum: Contains three to five layers of flattened keratinocytes that begin to die and form a waterproof barrier. (open.oregonstate.education)
- Stratum Lucidum: A thin, translucent layer found only in thick skin, providing an additional barrier to water loss. (open.oregonstate.education)
- Stratum Corneum: The outermost layer, consisting of many layers of dead, flattened keratinocytes that form a protective barrier. (open.oregonstate.education)
Function of the Integumentary System:
The integumentary system serves several vital functions:
- Protection: Acts as a physical barrier against pathogens, chemicals, and physical injuries.
- Thermoregulation: Regulates body temperature through the production of sweat by eccrine glands and the contraction of arrector pili muscles.
- Sensation: Contains sensory receptors that detect stimuli such as touch, pain, and temperature.
- Vitamin D Synthesis: Facilitates the production of vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.
- Excretion: Eliminates waste products through sweat.
Understanding the anatomy and function of the integumentary system is essential for recognizing how the skin maintains homeostasis and protects the body.