Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of melanocytes in the stratum basale of the epidermis?

Accepted Answer

They synthesize and transfer melanin to keratinocytes to protect nuclear DNA from UV radiation.

Question 2

A patient presents with a burn that is red, painful, and blisters. Which layer(s) of the skin are most likely affected, and what type of burn is this?

Accepted Answer

Epidermis and part of the dermis; second-degree burn

Question 3

Which of the following statements about thick and thin skin is correct?

Accepted Answer

Thick skin is found on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet and contains all five epidermal strata.

Question 4

A person with a genetic mutation that prevents the formation of desmosomes would most likely experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Fragile skin that blisters easily due to poor attachment between keratinocytes in the stratum spinosum

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why the skin is able to synthesize vitamin D when exposed to sunlight?

Accepted Answer

Keratinocytes in the epidermis convert 7-dehydrocholesterol to vitamin D$$_3$$ upon exposure to UVB radiation.

Question 6

A patient has a wound that is healing with the formation of granulation tissue and increased collagen deposition by fibroblasts. Which process is primarily occurring?

Accepted Answer

Fibrosis

Question 7

Which of the following glands is correctly matched with its secretion and function?

Accepted Answer

Sebaceous gland – secretes sebum that lubricates and is bactericidal

Question 8

A 35-year-old male develops a rapidly growing, irregularly pigmented lesion on his forearm. According to the ABCD rule for melanoma, which characteristic is most concerning?

Accepted Answer

The diameter is larger than 6 mm.

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the role of dendritic (Langerhans) cells in the epidermis?

Accepted Answer

They initiate immune responses by presenting antigens to T cells.

Question 10

A patient receives a subcutaneous injection. Which tissue layer is the needle penetrating to deliver the medication?

Accepted Answer

Subcutaneous (hypodermis) layer

Question 11

Which of the following is a function of the arrector pili muscle?

Accepted Answer

Contracting to elevate the hair and produce 'goosebumps'

Question 12

A person with a deficiency in eccrine (merocrine) sweat gland function would most likely experience which of the following problems during exercise?

Accepted Answer

Impaired thermoregulation leading to overheating

Question 13

Which pigment is responsible for the yellow-orange coloration of the skin and is acquired from the diet?

Accepted Answer

Carotene

Question 14

A child is born with a benign blood vessel tumor causing a skin discoloration. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Hemangioma

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why the skin is considered a selectively permeable barrier?

Accepted Answer

It allows some substances to be absorbed while blocking others, enabling transdermal drug administration.

Question 16

A patient with a third-degree burn is at greatest risk for which of the following complications?

Accepted Answer

Fluid loss, infection, and severe scarring

Question 17

Which of the following structures is NOT considered part of the integumentary system?

Accepted Answer

Subcutaneous (hypodermis) layer

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the process of keratinization in the epidermis?

Accepted Answer

Keratinocytes fill with keratin, lose their nuclei and organelles, and die as they move toward the surface.

Question 19

A patient with a mutation affecting the function of tactile (Merkel) cells would most likely have difficulty with which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Detecting light touch sensations

Question 20

Which of the following best explains the role of the papillary layer of the dermis?

Accepted Answer

It contains areolar connective tissue and interlocks with the epidermis to increase surface area for exchange.

Chapter 6: The Integumentary System – Structure and Function

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