156 HUMAN SKIN 



corium, each with a single or divided free 

 extremity, more prominent or more densely set 

 at some parts than at others. Most abundant, 

 for example, on the palmar surface of the hand 

 and fingers and the soles of the feet, where, 

 therefore, the sense of touch is greatest. 



* Each papilla is abundantly supplied with 

 blood, receiving from the vascular plexus in 

 the cutis one or two tiny arteries which 

 divide into capillary loops in its substance, 

 and then re-unite into a minute vein which 

 passes at its base. 



1 The nerve terminations and many other 

 important points about the skin cannot be 

 noticed here, but it is necessary that even 

 a brief reference should be made to the 



Functions of the Skin. 



' (1) As an external integument for the 

 protection of deeper tissues. 



' (2) As a sensitive organ in the sense of 

 touch. 



' (3) An important excretory organ, e.g., 

 perspiration, &c. 



