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The Integumentary System: A Case Study

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The integumentary system is comprised of cutaneous membrane and accessory structures. Accounting for approximately 16% of the body's total mass, it is the largest and most accessible organ that is constantly providing protection from external elements such as microorganisms, UV and chemical exposure (Martini, Nath & Bartholomew, 2012). The appearance of the skin is due to interdependent biological and physiological factor that are all subject to changes from intrinsic and extrinsic elements of ageing (Draelos & Pugliese, 2011). This essay will address the function and structure of the skin and how they changes with age.
The epidermis consists of stratified layers where the majority of cells are keratinocytes which manufacture the protein keratin. …show more content…
The upper region, the papillary layer, consists of dermal papillae which indent the epidermis and delivers nutrients from capillary loops. The recticular layer sits below and contains irregular connective tissue fibres including collagen and elastin which are produced by fibroblasts (Draelos & Pugliese, 2011). Elastin is able to stretch and provides elasticity to the skin whilst collagen, which does not stretch but is able twist and bend, regulates this flexabilty to prevent tissue damage (Martini, Nath, Bartholomew, 2012). Both can be found in the extracellular matrix which consists of water and proteoglycans that maintain water balance (Draelos, Pugliese, 2011). Water in the dermis provides skin turgor, giving it even more flexibility and resilience (Martini, Nath, Bartholomew). Capillaries in the dermis will dilate or constrict to counteract the change in temperature of the external environment to maintain homeostasis (Marieb, 2012). The presence of phagocytes form another line of defence against foreign bodies that managed to infiltrate the epidermis (Marieb, 2012). Sweat and sebaceous glands are also located here. Their secretions are responsible for forming of the "acid mantle" which is bacteriastatic (Marieb, 2012). Sweat glands also play a role in thermoregulation. Nerve endings can be found in the dermis such as Miessner's corpuscles that lie mearer to the epidermis and are responsible for …show more content…
Declining activity of the melanocytes causes the skin to become paler and with a decline in the levels of melanin production, skin becomes sensitive to sunlight and more prone to sunburn (Martini, Nath & Bartholomew, 2012). This sensitivity may arise from more substantial penetration of UV radiation into the dermis due to the reduced melanocyte density, resulting in greater damage (Syrigos et al,, 2005). Intrinsic ageing also leads to irregular pigmentation, particularly in sun exposed areas, causing age spots (Timiras, 2007). A decrease the number of Langerhans and a decline in their function is a probable cause for immune deficiencies in the elderly (Syrigos et al, 2005). The combined reduction in immune capacity and production of menalin can result in an increased risk of tumourgenesis (Timiras,

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