十二皮部是十二经脉功能活动反映于体表的部位，也是络脉之气散布之所在。《素问·皮部论》说：“凡十二经络脉者，皮之部也。”

The Twelve Cutaneous Regions refer to the body superficies on which the functions of the Twelve Regular Meridians are reflected, and the sites where the Qi of the collaterals spreads. In the Chapter "Discussion on the Cutaneous Regions"(Chapter 56)in Plain Questions Says :"The Twelve Meridians and Collaterals are also demonstrated over the Twelve Cutaneous Regions."

十二皮部的分布区域，是以十二经脉在体表的分布范围为依据的，《素问·皮部论》指出：“欲知皮部，以经脉为纪考，诸经皆然。医.学 全在.线提供www.med126.com

The Cutaneous Regions are within the domains of the Twelve Regular Meridians. In the Chapter "Discussion on the Cutaneous Regions " (Chapter 56)in Plain Questions, it points out "The Cutaneous Regions are marked by the regular meridians."

Since the Cutaneous Regions are the most superficial part of the body tissues, they render protection to the organism.