CHAPTER 3: Skin and Body Membranes Serous Membranes
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Composition:
- Epithelium: Simple squamous epithelium.
1.0. Classification of Body Membranes - Underlying Tissue: Thin layer of areolar
The two major categories of body membranes; epithelial connective tissue.
and connective tissue—are classified according to their Function and Location:
tissue makeup. - Purpose: Line closed body cavities and
compartments in the ventral body cavity.
1.1. Epithelial Membranes Structure:
Epithelial Membranes - Parietal Layer: Lines the wall of the cavity.
Composition: - Visceral Layer: Covers the outside of organs
- Epithelial layer: Present in all types. within the cavity.
- Connective tissue layer: Underlies the Visualization:
epithelial layer in all types. - Analogy: Comparable to a balloon where the
Nature: part clinging to your fist represents the
- These membranes are considered simple visceral serosa, and the outer wall of the
organs because they combine an epithelial balloon represents the parietal serosa.
layer with an underlying connective tissue Serous Fluid:
layer. - Role: Thin, clear fluid secreted by both serosal
- The term “epithelial” alone is misleading, as layers.
the membranes are more complex than just - Function: Lubricates the surfaces, allowing
epithelial tissue. organs to slide easily across cavity walls and
Types: each other without friction or pain.
● Cutaneous Membrane (skin) Types:
● Mucous Membranes - Peritoneum: Lines the abdominal cavity and
● Serous Membranes covers its organs.
- Pleurae: Surround the lungs.
Cutaneous Membrane (Skin) - Pericardia: Surround the heart.
Composition:
- Epidermis: Superficial layer, composed of
stratified squamous epithelium.
- Dermis: Underlying layer, mostly dense
irregular (fibrous) connective tissue.
Characteristics:
- Exposure: Unlike other epithelial membranes, it
is exposed to air.
- Nature: It is a dry membrane.
Mucous Membranes
Composition:
- Epithelium: Varies by site; can be stratified
squamous (e.g., mouth, esophagus) or simple
columnar (e.g., digestive tract).
- Lamina Propria: Loose (areolar) connective
tissue underlying the epithelium.
Characteristics:
- Location: Lines body cavities that open to the
exterior, including respiratory, digestive,
urinary, and reproductive tracts.
- Nature: Moist membranes, continuously
bathed in secretions or urine (in the case of
urinary mucosae).
- Function: Often adapted for absorption or
secretion. Many secrete mucus, but not all.
Mucosae in the respiratory and digestive
tracts secrete protective mucus; urinary
mucosae do not.
1.1. Connective Tissue Membranes
Synovial Membranes
Composition:
- Loose areolar connective tissue.
- No epithelial cells.
Location:
- Fibrous Capsules: Surrounding joints.
- Bursae: Small sacs of connective tissue.
- Tendon Sheaths: Tubelike structures around
tendons.
Function:
- Smooth Surface: Facilitates joint movement.
- Lubrication: Secretes a lubricating fluid to
reduce friction.
- Cushioning: Provides cushioning for organs
moving against each other.
Skin and the Integumentary System
Skin (Cutaneous Membrane):
Function:
- Boundary Maintenance: Keeps water and
molecules in, and excess water and other
substances out.
- Protection: Shields from external agents like
bacteria and prevents water and heat loss.
Structure:
- Pliable Yet Tough: Resilient to constant
external stress.
- Analogy: Comparable to a waterproof,
stretchable, and washable coat that repairs
itself and lasts a lifetime with proper care.
Integumentary System:
- Components: Skin, sweat and oil glands, hair,
and nails.
- Function: Protects and maintains the body's
boundary and homeostasis.
