| Term | Definition |
|---|
| Stratum Basale | Deepest layer, composed of single row of cuboidal or columnar keratinocytes that contain scattered tonofilaments; stem cells undergo cell division to produce new keratinocytes; melanocytes, Langerhans cells, and Merkel cells associated with tactile discs are scattered among keratinocytes |
| Stratum Spinosum | 8 to 10 rows of many-sided keratinocytes with bundles of tonofilaments; includes armlike processes of melanocytes and Langerhans cells. |
| Stratum Granulosum | 3 to 5 rows of flattened keratinocytes, in which organelles are beginning to degenerate; cells contain the protein keratohyalin, which converts tonofilaments into keratin, and lamellar granules, which release a lipid-rich, water-repellent secretion. |
| Stratum Lucidum | Present only in skin of fingertips, palms, and soles; consists of three to five rows of clear, flat, dead keratinocytes with large amounts of keratin. |
| Stratum Corneum | 25 to 30 rows of dead, flat keratinocytes that contain mostly keratin. |
Combine with other sets
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