Abstract
The skin is a complex organ responsible for numerous physiologic and immunologic functions. It is conceptually the largest organ of the body (1). It weighs between 3 and 4 kg, constitutes 6% of body weight, and, on the average adult, covers an area of approximately 2 m2. The functions of the skin are numerous and diverse. Notably, it serves as a barrier that excludes harmful chemicals and pathogens while retaining water and endogenous proteins. The skin also modulates body temperature, acts as a sensory organ, protects against physical injury, is a component of the immune system, and has psychosocial and aesthetic importance. It is composed of three principal layers: the epidermis, the dermis, and the subcutaneous tissue. It also houses the adnexa, melanocytes, Langerhans cells and Merkel cells.
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Sangüeza, O.P., Requena, L. (2003). Embryology, Anatomy, and Histology of the Vasculature of the Skin. In: Pathology of Vascular Skin Lesions. Current Clinical Pathology. Humana Press, Totowa, NJ. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59259-360-6_1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59259-360-6_1
Publisher Name: Humana Press, Totowa, NJ
Print ISBN: 978-1-61737-407-4
Online ISBN: 978-1-59259-360-6
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