Which body systems are involved when platelets seal cuts on the skin?

• A. Excretory and Muscular
• B. Integumentary and Digestive
• C. Integumentary and Circulatory
• D. Muscular and Respiratory

Answer: (C)

The involvement of the integumentary and circulatory systems when platelets seal cuts on the skin highlights the crucial interplay between these systems in the process of wound healing. The integumentary system, which includes the skin, acts as a protective barrier that must be breached when a cut occurs. When this barrier is broken, the circulatory system comes into play, particularly with the role of platelets in the blood.

Platelets are small cell fragments in the blood that are crucial for clotting. When a cut happens, platelets are activated and begin to converge at the site of the injury, forming a clot that seals the wound. This process not only stops bleeding but also creates a temporary barrier to protect the underlying tissues from pathogens and further injury.

In this case, the integumentary system is responsible for providing the physical structure of the skin and initiating the repair process, while the circulatory system provides the necessary components, such as platelets, to facilitate wound closure and healing. The cooperation between these two systems illustrates the body's integrated response to injury, showcasing how various systems work together to maintain homeostasis and protect against external harm.