The Common Integument

Question 1

Describe the general structures of the common integument.

Answer 1

Cutis: -Epidermis
-Dermis
Subcutis (hypodermis superficial fascia)

Question 2

What is the subcutis?

Answer 2

Loose connective tissue between the skin and the muscle fascia

Question 3

Explain the purpose of the subcutis.

Answer 3

• Insulation
• Energy source
• Padding/protection (e.g. footpads)

Question 4

What is the term for white fat?

Answer 4

Adipose tissue

Question 5

Explain the composition cutaneous muscles.

Answer 5

Thin, interrupted sheets spread over the body in the subcutis.

Question 6

Where does the cutaneous trunci cover?

Answer 6

The lateral sides of the trunk (and dorsally in cats to the tail)

Question 7

Describe the composition of the dermis.

Answer 7

» Primarily connective tissue
* Collagen (Types I & III)
* Elastin
* (tough and stretchy)
» Few cells
» The dermis has a superficial papillary region, and a deeper reticular region

Question 8

What are Langer’s lines?

Answer 8

AKA tension lines - caused by the specific orientation of collagen fibres in the dermis

Question 9

Name the 5 layers present in the epidermis.

Answer 9

1) Stratum basale
2) Stratum spinosum
3) Stratum granulosum
4) Stratum lucidum
5) Stratum corneum

Question 10

Name the specialised term for skin cells.

Answer 10

Keratinocytes

Question 11

What is the function of melanocytes, where can they be found

Answer 11

Melanocytes produce melanin pigment, which is passed to keratinocytes via cellular processes
Mostly live in the stratum basale

Question 12

Describe the blood supply to the dermis.

Answer 12

Well-vascularised: 3 plexuses
- Subcutaneous plexus
- Reticular vascular plexus
- Superficial papillary plexus
Capillaries branch off from superficial papillary plexus

Question 13

Sensory nerves within dermis can terminate in free nerve endings with three different types, detecting:

Answer 13

1) Pressure
2) Heat
3) Pain

Question 14

List 5 functions of the common integument:

Answer 14

1) Protection
2) Immune defence
3) Sensing environment
4) Thermoregulation
5) Storage and excretion
6) Communication/camouflage
7) Selective permeability