| Integument System Overview | The Epidermis | The Dermis | Glands | Hair | Nails |
| Lab Activities | Post Lab Questions |

Hair

Objectives
  1. Identify the functions of nails.
  2. Identify the structure of nails.

Click on each label to view definition
Body of nail- largest portion of the nail seen above the nail bed. The nail body, together with the free edge and eponychium, are known as the nail plate. Phalanx - Bone of Finfertip Lunula- light colored area consisting of a thick portion of stratum basale. It obscures underlying dermal blood vessels, causing the lighter color. Eponychium (cuticle)- ridge of dead epidermal cells. Body of nail- largest portion of the nail seen above the nail bed. The nail body, together with the free edge and eponychium, are known as the nail plate. Free edge of nail- the nail plate extending beyond the nail bed. Nail matrix- area of nail growth, containing cells undergoing mitosis. It is equivalent to the stratum basale of the epidermis. Root of nail- proximal portion of the nail. Eponychium (cuticle)- ridge of dead epidermal cells. Lunula- light colored area consisting of a thick portion of stratum basale. It obscures underlying dermal blood vessels, causing the lighter color. Nail bed- the skin just below the nail body. Body of nail- largest portion of the nail seen above the nail bed. The nail body, together with the free edge and eponychium, are known as the nail plate. Free edge of nail- the nail plate extending beyond the nail bed.

Function
Nails function in scratching and helping with the grasping of small items. Nail health and appearance can provide clues about the health of a patient. Anemias, nutritional deficiencies and even respiratory disorders can manifest changes in the nails.

Structure
Nails are derived from the stratum corneum and contain keratin. Cells at the nail matrix undergo mitosis allowing for the continued lengthening of the nail plate.

Bluedoor Publishing 2011