Human Anatomy - M.M. Kurepina, A.P. Ozhigova, A.A. Nikitina 2010

Integumentary System

The Skin (cutis) serves as the body's general covering, boasting a large surface area in contact with the external environment—averaging 1.6 m2—and consequently performs a variety of Functions. The skin is a vast receptor surface that provides tactile, thermal, and pain sensitivity (see 3.6.6). Thanks to the stratum corneum (keratin layer) On the surface of the epithelium, the skin performs a protective (barrier) function. This layer prevents many toxic and harmful substances as well as microbes from penetrating the body. The protective role of the skin in children is much less developed, making it more vulnerable and prone to infection. Children's skin also reacts much more acutely to chemical irritants. The skin protects the body from excessive moisture evaporation. It participates in Water-Salt METABOLISM, Respiration, and plays a crucial role in thermoregulation. The skin is of great importance in human ADAPTATION TO ENVIRONMENTAL conditions and in body conditioning. Melanocytes located in the skin produce pigment, which protects the body from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. Under The Influence of ultraviolet light, these Cells produce vitamin D, which prevents Rickets. By examining the condition of the skin, a physician can assess the patient's health status.



Last update: 08/08/2026

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