Subcutaneous tissue is the layer of fatty tissue beneath the skin. The spelling of this word is determined by its pronunciation, which is [sʌbkjʊˈteɪniəs ˈtɪʃuː]. The initial "s" is pronounced as "suh" followed by "uhb" and "kj" sounds. The "u" in "sub" is pronounced as "uh" and the "a" in "cutaneous" is pronounced as "ay". The final syllable "neous" is pronounced as "nee-us" and "tissue" is pronounced as "tish-oo". Overall, subcutaneous tissue consists of 16 letters and seven syllables.
Subcutaneous tissue refers to the layer of tissue located directly beneath the skin. It is made up of fat cells, connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. The term "subcutaneous" comes from Latin words, "sub," meaning under, and "cutis," meaning skin. Hence, subcutaneous tissue is literally the tissue located under the skin.
This layer of tissue serves various important physiological functions in the body. Firstly, it acts as an insulating layer, helping to maintain body temperature by providing a barrier against heat loss and protecting against cold. Secondly, subcutaneous tissue also acts as a cushion, providing protection and cushioning to the underlying structures such as muscles, bones, and organs. Additionally, it helps support the skin, allowing it to move smoothly over the underlying structures.
Subcutaneous tissue also plays a significant role in storing energy. The fat cells found in this layer store excess calories and serve as a source of fuel for the body. It helps regulate the body's metabolism and hormone levels. Moreover, the blood vessels present in the subcutaneous tissue help supply nutrients and oxygen to the skin and underlying structures.
In medical practices, subcutaneous tissue is important for procedures such as subcutaneous injections or administration of medication directly into the layer. It is also used for the measurement of subcutaneous fat thickness, which can be an indicator of overall health and body composition.
A layer of loose connective tissue immediately beneath the skin and closely attached to the corium by coarse fibrous bands, retinacula cutis; it contains more or less fat except in the auricles, eyelids, penis, and scrotum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "subcutaneous" is derived from the Latin words "sub" meaning "under" or "below", and "cutis" meaning "skin". "Tissue" comes from the Latin word "tessere" which means "to weave". Thus, the term "subcutaneous tissue" refers to the layer of tissue located beneath the skin.