In addition to the above functions the skin also has a subtler role to play in that it can reflect the interior condition of the body and as such can be a non-specific measure of health or disease.
The Skin
The skin is also referred to as the Cutaneous Membrane or Integument . It is the largest organ of the body both in size and weight (1-6mm thick in most areas – thinner over medial limb & genitalia, thicker over face, mane, back & croup).
Structurally, the skin is composed of 2 main parts:
A. Epidermis :
The superficial thinner portion composed of Epithelial Tissue
B. Dermis :
The deeper, thicker Connective Tissue portion
Deep to the dermis but not part of the skin is the subcutaneous layer also called the Hypodermis. This layer consists of areolar and adipose tissues with fibres extending from the dermis to anchor the skin to the subcutaneous layer, which in turn attaches to the underlying fascia and the CT around muscles and bones. This layer serves as a storage depot for fat and contains large blood vessels supplying the skin. This region also contains nerves endings called Pacinian Corpuscles which are sensitive to pressure stimuli.
74
Made with FlippingBook Publishing Software