Integument System

Integument includes: skin, hair, nails, sebaceous glands and sweat glands.

SkinFunctions are important:

1. Provides a protective covering. Keeps out pathogens than can cause disease Keeps out harmful rays from the sun Is waterproof yet still elastic Keeps balance of body fluids and electrolytes

2. Regulates body temperatureBlood vessels dilate and allow heat to radiate

from bodyEvaporation of perspiration cools body

Major sense organNerve ending in skin are responsive to touch,

pain, temperature and pressure

Structure of skinTwo main layers:

1. Epidermis is thin outer layer Has dead cells on top that rub off Has waterproof lipid substance Contains pigment melanin that gives skin its color

and blocks UV rays

2. DermisHas much tough but flexible connective tissue.Contains sweat glands, sebaceous glands, hair

follicles, nerve endings, and small blood vessels.

The hypodermis is a fatty layer that connects dermis to bone or muscle below.

Skin disorders1. Acne is clogging of pores in the skin.

Increase in hormone activity at puberty causes sebaceous glands to enlarge.

Oily sebum clogs a pore, where bacteria can grow and cause inflammation.

To treat acne: use prescribed or over the counter medications. Use over the counter medications such as benzoyl

peroxide. See doctor for antibiotics and other treatments.

2. Moles are round brown areas of pigmented skin.

Changes in a mole may indicate skin cancer: uncontrolled growth.A. asymmetry – not the same on both sidesB. border “hazy” or spreadingC. color – black, blue or red.D. Diameter – larger than 5 mm about the size

of a pencil erasure.E. Elevation – thick lumpy.

3. Other common conditions include:Fungal infections such as ring worm, athletes

foot, and jock itch

Bacterial and viral infections that can cause impetigo, herpes, MRSA.

Unusual growths that appear as boils, warts, corns.

Chronic long term disorders like vitiligo, psoriasis, eczema.

Damage from friction that results in blisters and calluses.

Care of Skin

1. Keep face cleanWash face 2 or 3 times each day with “soap”

and water.Pat dry with a clean towelAvoid cosmetics that are oily and don’t share

them.Include such as carrots and dark vegetables

that are high in vitamin A.Keep hands away from face

2. Bathe or shower and use deodorant to prevent body odor.

3. Avoid UV rays from the sun and tanning beds.UV rays are part of the electromagnetic

spectrum.UV rays are more intense at mid-day, so sum

exposure between the hours of 12 and 2 should be avoided.

Rays can penetrate clouds and be reflected by snow and water.

UV rays are harmful and a cumulative risk.There are three kinds of UV rays determined

by wavelength: Uva: Length is longer, cause of ageing, and can

damage the immune system. Uvb: Length is shorter, cause cataracts, tanning and

burning, and cancer. Uvc: Shortest wave length, so highest energy (can

be lethal), but blocked by ozone in upper atmosphere.

To limit UV exposure, know your skin type and exposure time, cover skin, avoid tanning beds, and use sunscreen.

Sunscreen’s measure of protection is indicated by SPF

4. Piercing and tattoosAncient form of “body art” common in many

cultures.Associated with many serious health problems

including HIV and Hepatitis.Usually permanent, so carefully consider

effects on physical and social health.