Panniculus carnosus

Panniculus carnosus is a thin layer of muscle which is found in the subcutaneous tissue of many mammals, including humans. It is part of the integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, nails, and exocrine glands. The panniculus carnosus is responsible for movements of the skin, such as shivering or twitching.

Structure

The panniculus carnosus is a thin, flat muscle that lies beneath the dermis and above the fascia. It is composed of striated muscle fibers, which are responsible for its contractile properties. The muscle fibers are arranged in a parallel fashion, allowing for coordinated movements of the skin.

Function

The primary function of the panniculus carnosus is to facilitate movements of the skin. This can be seen in animals such as dogs or cats, where the muscle allows for the twitching of the skin to dislodge parasites. In humans, the muscle is not as well developed, but it still plays a role in certain movements, such as shivering in response to cold temperatures.

Clinical significance

In humans, the panniculus carnosus is often involved in surgical procedures involving the skin, such as skin grafts. Understanding the anatomy and function of this muscle can help surgeons to perform these procedures more effectively.

See also

• Integumentary system
• Dermis
• Fascia
• Striated muscle