The integumentary system consists of the skin, hair, nails, and cutaneous glands. We are perhaps more conscious of this system than of any other in the body. Few of us would venture out of the house each day without first looking in a mirror to see if our skin and hair are presentable. We are well aware of how important this system is to individual recognition, social acceptance, and self-image–and social considerations aside, self-image is important to a person's overall health.

Dermatology is the scientific study and medical treatment of the integumentary system. This is the most easily examined of the organ systems, and its appearance provides important clues not only to its own health but also to deeper disorders such as liver cancer, anemia, and heart failure. It is also the most vulnerable organ system, exposed to radiation, trauma, infection, and injurious chemicals. Consequently, it needs medical attention more often than any other.

Copyright ©1998 The McGraw-Hill Companies. All rights reserved. Any use is subject to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
McGraw-Hill Higher Education is one of the many fine businesses of The McGraw-Hill Companies.
For further information about this site contact mhhe_webmaster@mcgraw-hill.com.