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Subcutaneous Tissue

By Heather Brannon, MD, About.com

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Casey Gallagher, MD

Definition:
The subcutaneous tissue is the third of the three layers of skin. The subcutaneous layer contains fat and connective tissue that houses larger blood vessels and nerves. This layer is important is the regulation of temperature of the skin itself and the body. The size of this layer varies throughout the body and from person to person.
Pronunciation: SUB-kyoo-TAYN-ee-us TISH-yoo (noun)

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