subcutaneous tissue

An irregular layer of connective tissue between the skin & the underlying fascia, generally consisting of adipose tissue & may include a muscle layer &/or a fibrous layer. In certain regions, it may occur as a membranous layer only (void of adipose tissue) i.e. auricles, eyelids, scrotum, penis. The subcutaneous layer is supported by skin ligaments, the retinacula cutis. Cutaneous nerves & blood vessels also traverse subcutaneous tissue.

General

tissue connective tissue

References

Stedman's Medical Dictionary 27th ed, Williams & Wilkins, Baltimore, 1999