Term of the Day

Papillary Dermis: Thin, superficial layer of the dermis composed of loose connective tissue and thrown into nipple-like projections called dermal papillae, which interdigitate with the overlying epidermis. The papillae contain capillaries, free nerve endings (which act as pain receptors) and Meissner's corpuscles (which act as touch receptors). On the palms and soles, the papillae lie on top of larger mounds called dermal ridges which, in turn, produce corresponding epidermal ridges. The latter give us our fingerprints.

Term of the Day

Hilton's Law: Joints (articulations) have an extensive nerve supply. These articular nerves are actually branches of the nerves that supply the overlying skin and the muscles that move the joint. Hilton's Law essentially says that the nerves that supply a joint also supply the muscles that move the joint and the skin covering their attachments.

Term of the Day

Furuncle: The medical term for a "boil" -- an inflammation of the hair follicles. It may develop from pre-existing folliculitis that spreads into surrounding dermis. The causative microorganism is usually S. aureus.