Integumentary SystemKristen Cianci

What is it? Includes skin, hair, and nails Body’s largest organ 15% of total body weight

Functions First defense against bacteria, viruses,

and other pathogens Eliminates waste through perspiration Protects us from harmful ultraviolet

radiation Guards against sunburn

The 3 Layers Epidermis

-has no blood vessels-consists of keratinocytes

The 3 Layers

Dermis-contains two layer = provides elasticity-ending sight for blood vessels and nerves-contains sweat glands, lymph vessels, and oil glands

The 3 Layers Hypodermis

-insulate and cushion organs-stores fat-blood vessels, lymph vessels, nerves, and hair follicles run through here

Diseases

Acne- caused by increased levels of androgens

Alopecia Areata- attacks hair follicles Athlete’s Foot- common fungus infection

between the toes Dermatitis- inflammation, such as poison

ivy Psoriasis- causes skin cells to mature

quickly, backup of cells on surface Skin cancer- epidermis stops producing

keratin