Futuer unversity

Faculty of engineering
department of biomedical engineering

( Integumentary system )
prepared by :

Ahmed altahir ahmed

201934006
bio 19
 Introduction
The integumentary system is the body’s largest organ
system, acting as a protective barrier between the
external environment and internal structures. It includes
the skin (epidermis, dermis, hypodermis), hair, nails, and
associated glands, all of which work together to maintain
homeostasis, immune defense, thermoregulation, and
sensory perception. Beyond its structural role, the
system plays a crucial part in wound healing, Vitamin D
.synthesis, and fluid balance regulation

This research explores the anatomy, functions of the

integumentary system. It examines how its components
contribute to protection, immunity, and physiological
regulation, while also highlighting common pathological
.conditions that affect its function
Barrier Function & Immunity: The skin acts
Pathophysiology & Disorders:
as the first line of defense against
Skin diseases such as burns, psoriasis,
environmental threats, with keratinized
epidermolysis bullosa, cellulitis, melanoma,
layers, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), and
and pressure ulcers impact skin integrity and
immune cells (Langerhans, macrophages,
require specialized treatments.
dendritic cells) preventing infections

Wound Healing Mechanisms:

The skin repairs itself through four Literature Thermoregulation & Sensory
Perception:

review
distinct phases—hemostasis, Sweat glands and blood vessels
inflammation, proliferation, and regulate body temperature, while nerve
remodeling. receptors detect pain, touch, and
temperature changes

Existing research on the

integumentary system emphasizes its
protective, regulatory, and sensory
functions
 mothdology

o study the integumentary system, I collected information from research papers, textbooks,
and reliable medical websites. I focused on sources that explain the structure, functions, and
common diseases of the skin, hair, nails, and glands.

.Choosing the Right Sources:

• I included research that was recent, reliable, and directly related to the integumentary system.
• I avoided outdated information and non-scientific sources.

Gathering Information:
• I searched for recent studies and articles on topics like skin function, wound healing, and common skin disorders.
• I used keywords such as “integumentary system,” “skin protection,” and “skin diseases” to find useful information.
 Research Body
Structure of the Integumentary System
The integumentary system comprises multiple components,
including:
Skin: The largest organ of the body, consisting of
Epidermis: The outermost layer, providing protection and
regeneration through keratinized cells
Dermis: Contains blood vessels, nerves, glands, and hair
follicles, supporting epidermal function
Hypodermis (Subcutaneous Tissue): Composed of fat and
connective tissue, offering insulation and cushioning
Hair and Nails: Specialized keratinized structures aiding in
protection and sensation

Glands :
Sweat Glands (Eccrine & Apocrine): Assist in
thermoregulation and waste excretion
Sebaceous Glands: Secrete sebum to maintain skin
hydration and antimicrobial protection
 Physical Protection
Vitamin D Synthesis The epidermis acts as a barrier against mechanical-
.damage, UV radiation, and pathogens
,UV exposure activates Vitamin D production Keratinized layers prevent water loss and-
essential for bone health and calcium metabolism .environmental injury
Nails and hair provide additional protection against-
.external forces

Wound Healing
The skin undergoes four stages of wound healing:
Sensory Perception
Hemostasis: Blood clotting prevents excessive
bleeding. Functions of the
,The skin contains mechanoreceptors
Inflammation: Immune cells clear debris and Integumentary ,thermoreceptors, and nociceptors that detect touch
pathogens.
Proliferation: Fibroblasts generate new tissue and
System .temperature, and pain
blood vessels.
Remodeling: Collagen strengthens and restores skin
.integrity
Immune Defense
The skin serves as the first line of defense in the
Thermoregulation immune system.
-Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) disrupt bacterial
Sweat glands release fluid for evaporative cooling. membranes.
,Blood vessel dilation (vasodilation) helps release heat ,Resident immune cells (Langerhans cells-
.while vasoconstriction conserves warmth macrophages, dendritic cells) detect and eliminate
.pathogens
 Pressure Sores (Decubitus Ulcers): Burns
Occur in bedridden individuals due to (e.g., thermal, chemical, electrical): Damage
prolonged pressure on the skin. skin layers and impair fluid balance.

Skin Cancer (e.g., Melanoma): Pathophysiology Psoriatic Arthritis:

Uncontrolled melanocyte proliferation of the An autoimmune condition affecting skin
due to UV exposure. Integumentary and joints.
System

Cellulitis: Epidermolysis Bullosa:

Bacterial infection leading to skin A genetic disorder causing skin fragility and
inflammation and swelling. blistering
Conclusion

The integumentary system is essential for physical

protection, immune defense, thermoregulation, and wound
healing. Understanding its structure and function allows for
better diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of various skin
disorders. Future research should focus on skin
regeneration, microbiome interactions, and advanced
therapies to improve dermatological care.
 References
Kim JY, Dao H. Physiology, Integument. InStatPearls [Internet] 2020 Feb 17. StatPearls Publishing.Available from:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554386/ (last accessed 23.10.2020)

Martini FH, Nath, JL. Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology. 8th ed. Pearson. San Francisco: Benjamin
Cummings.

Martini FH, Nath, JL. Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology. 8th ed. Pearson. San Francisco: Benjamin
Cummings.

Overview of the integumentary system image - © Kenhub

https://www.kenhub.com/en/study/anatomy-of-integumentary-system

Hoover E, Alhajj M, Flores JL. Physiology, Hair. InStatPearls [Internet] 2019 Aug 10. StatPearls Publishing.Available
from:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499948/ (last accessed 23.10.2020)