Problem 1: List the multiple functions of the integumentary system and describe the specific anatomical structures responsible for each function.
Problem 2: Describe the structural organization, tissue type and function of the 2 main layers of skin (epidermis & dermis) and their various sublayers: including the 5 strata of the epidermis (stratum basale/germinativum; stratum spinosum; stratum granulosum; stratum lucidum; stratum corneum) and the 2 sublayers of the dermis (papillary layer; reticular layer).
Problem 3: Explain the differences between thick and thin skin including both structural differences and location.
Problem 4: Define lines of cleavage in the dermis and discuss their clinical significance.
Problem 5: Describe the microscopic structure (i.e. tissue types & accessory structures) and function of the subcutaneous layer located deep to skin, called the hypodermis / superficial fascia.
Problem 6: Explain the difference between keratinocytes and melanocytes, including their respective functions and locations.
Problem 7: Describe the process of desquamation of dead, keratinized cells and the replacement of those cells by mitosis. Where does each of these processes occur (i.e. in what stratum) and what happens in the intervening strata to the cells? How long does this process generally take?
Problem 8: Describe the 3 different factors that cause pigmentation of skin. Which of these factors allows human skin color to vary widely between light-white to black in human populations? What ultimately determines ones' skin color and what cellular processes are involved?
Problem 9: Describe the blood supply to the skin (both plexuses).
Problem 10: Describe the structure, function, location, and embryological derivation of the accessory structures of skin including: pili; arrector pili; hair follicle; sebaceous gland; sudoriferous/sweat gland; tactile (Meissner's) corpuscle; lamellated (Pacinian) corpuscle. Contrast the method of secretion for the two types of glands.
Problem 11: Summarize the effects of aging on the integumentary system.
Problem 12: List and discuss the three main types of skin cancers. Discuss the significance of their name with respect to anatomy of the skin. Include information regarding their cause and prognosis.