Introduction to the
Integumentary System
Integumentary System
• Structures covering the body’s exterior surface
Skin
• Two Layers
o Epidermis: Replaced ≈ every 35 to 45 days
o Dermis: Ridges: Create a unique pattern of
finger, palm, and footprints; Facilitate the
ability to grip and hold objects
• Subcutaneous tissue: Skin attached to
muscle, bone; Connective tissue, fat
cells
• Melanin gives the skin its color
Question
Is the following statement true or false?
The epidermis is replaced with new cells every
35 – 45 days. The next layer, the dermis,
contains the ridges which comprise the
fingerprints.
Answer
False.
The epidermis contains the ridges which
comprise the fingerprints.
Skin Functions
• Protection
• Temperature Regulation
o Radiation; Conduction
o Evaporation; Convection
• Sensory Processing
• Chemical Synthesis
Question
Is the following statement true or false?
One of the primary functions of the skin is to
protect the underlying structures.
Answer
True.
One of the primary functions of the skin is to
protect the underlying structures. Protection
from pathogens and also from dehydration.
Hair
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Originates in hair follicle in dermis
Vellus hair; Terminal hair
Keratin + amino acids = hair
Scalp hair grows most rapidly
Hair growth slows by midlife
Decreased melanin production causes graying
hair
Sebaceous, Sweat
Glands
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Connected to each hair follicle
Secrete sebum (oily substance)
More active during puberty
Sweat Glands
o Eccrine glands
o Apocrine glands
Question
Is the following statement true or false?
Apocrine glands secrete fluid during perspiration.
Answer
True.
Apocrine glands secrete fluid during perspiration.
They also secrete a substance in the external
ear canals called cerumen. In animals,
apocrine glands secrete pheromones.
Finger, Toenails
• Nails
o Hard keratin; Protective function; Nail root
o Abundant capillary blood supply; Lunula
Pressure Sore Staging
• Pressure Sore
Staging
o Stage I: Redness
o Stage II: Blistering or skin
tear
o Stage III: Shallow crater
with drainage
o Stage IV: Deep ulcerated
tissue; Exposed muscle
and bone; Sepsis
Integumentary
Assessments
• Scalp, Hair Assessment
o Skin: Smooth; Intact; Free of lesions
o Assess: Color, texture, and distribution
o Abnormal findings: Nits or lice; Scales, flaking skin
• Nail Assessment
o Check for normal structure
o Assess: Change in shape or thickness; Color of nailbed; Capillary
refill time
Integumentary
Diagnostic Tests
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Visual Inspection
Culture and Sensitivity Tests
Allergy Tests
Wood’s Light Examination
Potassium Hydroxide Test
Fungal Culture
Skin Biopsy
Medical, Surgical Treatment of Skin Disorders
• Drug Therapy
o Corticosteroids; Antihistamines
o Antibiotics; Antiseptics
o Scabicides; Pediculicides
o Antiseborrheic agents
o Keratolytics
o Standard precautions in application of
topical medication over impaired skin
Medical, Surgical Treatment of Skin Disorders
• Wet Dressings
o Cooling, soothing effect
o Sterile procedure for broken skin
o Dry gauze placed on area is saturated with
prescribed solution
o Dressing anchored
o Left in place until dry as a method of
debridement
Medical, Surgical Treatment of Skin Disorders
• Therapeutic Baths
o No soaps; Warm water
o Gentle application of solution to submerged
parts
o Inflammation and itching relief
o Aid in removal of crusts and scales
o Products used: Oatmeal; Cornstarch; Baking
soda; Mineral oil
Medical, Surgical Treatment of Skin Disorders
• Surgical Excision
o Laser therapy
• Acronym for LASER
• Precautions
o Cryosurgery
o Electrodessication
• Radiation Therapy: Treatment of malignant
skin lesions
Medical, Surgical Treatment of Skin Disorders
• Photochemotherapy
o Combination of psoralen methoxsalen and
ultraviolet A light
• Lifestyle Changes
o Tiredness or emotional stress aggravates
condition
o Rest, sleep, and diet are important factors in
treatment
End of Presentation