1. The outer layer of tissue covering the skull, including the skin and underlying connective tissue of the scalp.
Usage: anatomical term; also called the scalp

Examples

• The epicranium protects the skull and brain beneath it.
• A wound to the epicranium can bleed heavily due to the rich blood supply in the scalp.
• The surgeon carefully examined the patient's epicranium for signs of injury.
• Hair follicles are embedded throughout the epicranium.
• Inflammation of the epicranium can cause scalp tenderness.