Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of keratin in the stratum corneum of the epidermis?

Accepted Answer

Keratin provides a waterproof barrier and mechanical protection to the skin.

Question 2

A patient presents with a bluish tint to their skin, especially noticeable on the lips and fingertips. Which of the following best explains this phenomenon?

Accepted Answer

Decreased oxygen saturation of hemoglobin in the blood, leading to cyanosis.

Question 3

Which layer of the skin contains the majority of sensory receptors for touch, pressure, and temperature?

Accepted Answer

Dermis

Question 4

A surgeon is planning an incision on a patient’s back. To minimize scarring, the incision should be made:

Accepted Answer

Parallel to the tension lines of the skin

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why thick skin (such as on the palms and soles) is less likely to tan compared to thin skin?

Accepted Answer

Thick skin has fewer melanocytes and little or no melanin.

Question 6

Which of the following is the correct order of the layers of the epidermis in thick skin, from superficial to deep?

Accepted Answer

Stratum corneum, stratum lucidum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum, stratum basale

Question 7

A person with a genetic defect that prevents the production of sebum would most likely experience which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of bacterial infections and dry, brittle skin

Question 8

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

Accepted Answer

They are phagocytes that participate in immune defense by presenting antigens.

Question 9

Which of the following statements about the subcutaneous layer (hypodermis) is correct?

Accepted Answer

It stores energy, provides insulation, and acts as a shock absorber.

Question 10

A patient is exposed to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Which of the following is a likely physiological response in the skin?

Accepted Answer

Increased melanin production, leading to skin darkening (tanning)

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why sweat evaporation cools the body?

Accepted Answer

Evaporation of sweat absorbs heat from the skin, lowering body temperature: $$Q = mL_v$$

Question 12

A person with a fever has noticeably redder skin. Which of the following best explains this observation?

Accepted Answer

Dilation of capillaries in the dermis, increasing blood flow and redness

Question 13

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

Accepted Answer

Contracts to raise the hair shaft, causing 'goose bumps'

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the process of insensible perspiration?

Accepted Answer

Continuous, unnoticeable evaporation of water through the epidermis

Question 15

A person consumes a diet high in carrots and pumpkins, leading to a yellow-orange tint in their skin. Which pigment is responsible for this change?

Accepted Answer

Carotene

Question 16

Which of the following structures is responsible for detecting movement of hair on the skin?

Accepted Answer

Root hair plexus

Question 17

Which of the following best explains the role of Vitamin D synthesized in the skin?

Accepted Answer

It increases the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the small intestine: $$	ext{Ca}^{2+} + 	ext{Vitamin D} ightarrow 	ext{Increased absorption}$$

Question 18

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the difference between eccrine and apocrine sweat glands?

Accepted Answer

Eccrine glands secrete a watery sweat directly onto the skin surface, while apocrine glands secrete a viscous sweat into hair follicles.

Question 19

A patient receives a subcutaneous injection. Into which layer is the medication delivered?

Accepted Answer

Subcutaneous layer (hypodermis)

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the function of the papillary layer of the dermis?

Accepted Answer

Contains dermal papillae that interlock with the epidermis, increasing surface area for exchange and sensation

Integumentary System: Structure, Function, and Accessory Organs

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