Anatomy & Physiology

Functions of the SkinPigmentation

Functions of the Skin

1. Sensory perception Nerves respond to pain, temp., pressure

2. Temp. regulator Sweat glands cool the body Blood vessels dilate (heat) & contract (cold)

3. Storage Temporary storage of fat, glucose, water, salts

Functions of the Skin

4. Protect Barrier to UV rays & pathogens Holds in moisture / prevents deep tissue from drying

5. Absorption Absorbs certain chemicals through the skins

6. Excretion Eliminates salt / excess water

7. Production Produces Vitamin D (from sun)

Pigmentation

• Albino– Absence of skin color– Skin is a pinkish tint with white or yellow hair

– Eyes lack pigment (red / pink)– Extremely sensitive to sunlight

• Jaundice– Yellowish color of the skin– Common in newborns– Occurs in adults (due to disease of the liver)

http://dorsi.hubpages.com/hub/The-Symptoms-of-Jaundice-in-a-Newborn

• Erythema– Reddish color of the skin– Caused by burns / irritation

• Cyanosis– Bluish color of the skin– Lack of oxygen