ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z                    HOME ABOUT CATEGORIES SITE MAP COPYRIGHT ADVERTISE CONTACT entire Web this site hypodermis A layer of tissue that lies immediately below the dermis of vertebrate skin. It is often referred to as subcutaneous tissue though this is a less precise and anatomically inaccurate term. The hypodermis consists primarily of loose connective tissue and lobules of fat. It contains larger blood vessels and nerves than those found in the dermis. Specifically, the hypodermis contains: Loosely arranged elastic fibers Fibrous bands anchoring the skin to the deep fascia Fat, except in the eyelid, scrotum, penis, nipple and areola Blood vessels on route to the dermis Lymphatic vessels on route from dermis Hair follicle roots The glandular part of some sudiferous glands Nerves: free endings and Panicinian corpuscles Bursae, in the space overlying joints in order to facilitate smooth passage of overlying skin Fine, flat sheets of muscle, in certain locations, including the scalp, face, hand, nipple, and scrotuim, called the panniculus carnosus In some animals, such as whales and hibernating mammals, the hypodermis forms an important insulating layer and/or food store. In some plants, the hypodermis is a layer of cells immediately below the epidermis of leaves. It is often mechanically strengthened, for example, in pine leaves, forming an extra protective layer or a water storage tissue. Related category    • ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) BACK TO TOP