Key Terms
Functions
Energy storage, insulation, cushioning for underlying structures.
Key cell
Langerhans cells - dendritic cells that act as macrophages; engulf bacteria and foreign particles.
Melanin does two things
Protects DNA from UV damage AND protects folic acid. But too much melanin can block vitamin D synthesis.
FUNCTIONS OF HAIR
Protection (head from sun, nose/ears from particles), sensory input (hair root plexus detects air movement and touch), t
Calcitriol functions
Essential for calcium and phosphorus absorption; required for bone health; supports immunity against bacterial, viral, a
Basal cell carcinoma
Most common cancer in the US; head, neck, arms, back most affected; spreads along stratum basale boundary; treated with
Squamous cell carcinoma
Scalp, ears, hands; 2 in 10 skin cancers; surgery and radiation used.
Melanoma
Develops from a mole; highly metastatic; difficult to detect early; treated with surgical excision and immunotherapy.
Treatment
IV fluids to offset dehydration; IV nutrients to support tissue repair.
Rule of nines
Method for estimating total body surface area burned; each region of the body equals a percentage that is a multiple of
Keratin
Fibrous protein; gives skin, hair, and nails hardness and water resistance.
Keratinocyte
Predominant epidermal cell; produces and stores keratin.
Melanin
Pigment determining hair and skin color; produced by melanocytes; transferred to keratinocytes via melanosomes.
Melanosome
Vesicle that transfers melanin from melanocyte to keratinocyte.
Dermal papillae
Finger-like projections of dermis into epidermis; increase surface area and connection strength.