Skin: The Incredible Organ

The stratum basally is the bottom row of cells in the epidermis responsible for the growth and replenishment of skin cells, helping to maintain the health of the epidermis.

The skin is the largest organ of the human body.

Skin cancers arise from the top paper-thin layer called the epidermis.

Melanocytes produce melanin, a protective pigment that protects the DNA in the skin cells' nuclei from UV damage.

90% of the epidermis is composed of keratinocytes.

The hypodermis, which is made of fatty tissue, combines with the skin to complete the overall integumentary system.

Basal cell carcinoma is a mutation or cancer of keratinocytes derived from the stratum Basally, and it's the most common type of skin cancer.

The epidermis is avascular and composed of cells stacked together, whereas the dermis is below the epidermis and contains blood vessels.

Malignant melanoma is a more serious type of skin cancer involving an overgrowth of mutant melanocytes; it can sometimes be deadly.

Lentigenes, commonly known as sunspots, age spots, or liver spots, are types of freckles caused by sun damage, representing an accumulation of melanin due to UV exposure.

UV exposure can cause hyperpigmentation and age spots, which are benign skin lesions.

The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, where cells become fully flattened and die off, forming a protective barrier.

The stratum granulosum contains granules filled with lipids that spew out to coat cells in oil, preventing water from penetrating or escaping through the skin.

Skin pigmentation depends on the amount of melanin produced by melanocytes deposited in keratinocytes, not the number of melanocytes, which is typically similar across skin tones.

The stratum lucidum is a layer found only on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, adding extra thickness in these areas and appearing lighter.

Malignant melanomas may spread to other body parts through blood vessels and affect vital organs, leading to serious health issues or death.

UV light can damage DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can cause skin cancer. Limiting sun exposure and using sunscreen can help prevent skin cancer.

Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than 6 mm, and Evolving nature are signs to watch for in potentially cancerous moles.

Early detection of skin cancer allows for better treatment outcomes by catching the cancer before it spreads.

Keratinocytes (in basal and squamous cell carcinoma) and melanocytes (in malignant melanoma) are the cells involved in different types of skin cancer.

The stratum basally is the bottom row of cells in the epidermis responsible for the growth and replenishment of skin cells, helping to maintain the health of the epidermis.

The skin is the largest organ of the human body.