Chapter 5, Problem 1CYR

Explain why the skin is an organ.

Summary Introduction

To review:

The rationale behind skin being an organ.

Introduction:

Skin or the integument system provides the coveringover the body. The skin performs various functions other than the protection of the body. However, the skin does not get recognition as an organ from most of the people.

Explanation of Solution

The organ can be defined as a group of different types of tissues that perform together to accomplish various functions. Integument system is made up of different tissues. Skin is a cutaneous membrane. It is made up of two different layers, namely, epidermis and dermis.

The epidermis is made up of keratinized squamous epithelial cells. The dermis is made up of loose connective tissues and dense irregular connective tissues. The hypodermis is the layer beneath the skin made up of loose connective tissues. Blood is supplied to the dermis via the capillary network.

The skin consists of various structures like sebaceous glands, sweat glands, hair, and nails. Muscle tissues are also present in the skin attached to the base of hair. All these different types of tissues and structures help in performing different kinds of functions like protection, thermoregulation, excretion, homeostasis maintenance, water-electrolyte balance, andvitamin D synthesis. Thus, the skin fulfills the criteria necessary for an organ.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that the skin is made up of different tissues that help to perform different functions. Thus, the skin is an organ that is supplied with blood, has connective tissues, and provides protection to the body.