The integumentary system consists of skin and its accessory organs. The accessory organs of skin are hair follicles, nails, and skin glands. Skin is the body's outer covering and is its largest multifunctioning organ.
Outline
Functions of the Integumentary System
Skin Structure
Skin Color
Skin Lesions
Accessory Organs
Skin Healing
Skin and Aging
Learning Outcomes
After completing Chapter 24, you will be able to:
24.1 List the functions of skin.
24.2 Explain the role of skin in regulating body temperature.
24.3 Describe the layers of skin and the characteristics of each layer.
24.4 Explain the factors that affect skin color.
24.5 Identify and describe common skin lesions.
24.6 List the accessory organs of skin and describe their structures and functions.
24.7 Explain the process of skin healing, including scar production.
24.8 Describe the effects of aging on skin.
24.9 List the different types of burns and describe their appearances and treatments.
24.10 Describe the causes, signs and symptoms, and treatments of various types of skin cancer.
24.11 Describe the causes, signs and symptoms, and treatments of common skin disorders.
24.12 Explain the ABCD rule and its use in evaluating melanoma.
24.13 Using the acronym CAUTION, list the seven warning signs of cancer.
Summary
The integumentary system is the first line of defense for the body. The skin covers the surface of the body, protecting it from invading organisms, chemicals, UV light, and water loss. Hair, nails, and oil glands also serve as protetive barriers. In addition, the skin helps regulate body temperature via body hair and sweat glands. Because the skin is so important in protecting the body, thorough understanding of lesions, including burns that disrupt this protective function, is essential for medical assistants. Diagnostic testing including allergy testing and tuberculosis screening is performed through the integumentary system, as are therapeutic procedures such as injections and intravenous infusions. Understanding this system, its layers, and the contents of those layers can help you be more effective in your role as a medical assistant.
