Using your textbook as a resource, list the layers of the skin and identify the characteristic structure of each layer. Describe a clinical condition related to each layer and consider the impact on the individual's quality of life.
The skin and its derivatives make up the integumentary system. It is the largest external organ of the body and makes up about 16% of the bodyweight. (openstax, 2018). Together with the hair, nails, sweat glands, and oil glands, the skin remains our first line of defense against harsh elements of weather, sharp objects, bacteria, etc. Most importantly, it provides a barrier between our external environment and the internal organs. It also restricts the movement of water and heat in and out of the body, plays a major role in the synthesis of vitamin D, and helps us to sense the environments around us among numerous functions (Mayhe & Pandiya 2017).
However, at various cites, the composition of the skin varies in thickness and hairiness across the body. The skin is primarily made up of two layers; the Epidermis and the dermis. But beyond these two layers is a correlated fatty layer called the hypodermis or subcutaneous layer.
The Epidermis; the avascular epidermis happens to be the visible layer of the skin. It is the outermost part of the skin with 4 - 5 sub-layers (depending on the cite) keratinized stratified squamous epithelia (Openstax, 2018). From the innermost to the outermost layer the skin is composed of;
Stratum basale; has a single layer of keratinocytes that divide rapidly to replace dead skin cells)
Stratum spinosum or prickly layer; composed of several layers of keratinocytes linked together by desmosomes. They also contain dendritic cells that ingest foreign bodies.
Stratum granulosum; contains four to six layers of cells. This is where keratinization starts. The cells in this layer secret lipids and waterproof molecules.
Stratum lucidum; this layer is mostly found around the palmar and plantar surfaces of the hands and feet respectively. It is also known as the clear layer that consists of two or three cells layers thick of dead flattened keratinocytes with no nuclei. More keratin is produced here (Mayhew & Pandiya 2017).
The corneum; this layer is also known as the horny layer. It contains 15 - 30 layers of cells (Openstax, 2018). Here the cells lose all organelles and continue to produce lots of keratin.
One condition associated with the epidermis of the skin is "Acne". Acne occurs when the pores of the hair follicles become clogged due to excess sebum production or accumulated dead keratin cells. However, when Propionibacterium and Staphylococcus infect the pores, the surrounding area of the follicle bulges out and becomes white at the onset. But when exposed to the oxygen in the air, it darkens and becomes blackhead (Openstax, 2018). Acne occurs around areas with a high amount of sebum production and can affect people all ages most especially teenagers (MayoClinic, n.d). Although acne isn't life-threatening they are particularly painful and can cause scarring,