Question 1

Which layer of the epidermis is primarily responsible for forming the waterproof barrier that prevents excessive water loss from the body?

Accepted Answer

Stratum granulosum

Question 2

A patient presents with a genetic defect that prevents the production of keratin. Which cell type in the epidermis would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Keratinocytes

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the function of lamellar granules in the epidermis?

Accepted Answer

They form a waterproof barrier by releasing lipids.

Question 4

A burn patient loses the ability to sense light touch in the affected area. Which cell type is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Tactile epithelial cells (Merkel cells)

Question 5

Which region of the dermis is responsible for fingerprints and contains elastic fibers and capillary loops?

Accepted Answer

Papillary region

Question 6

If the hypodermis is damaged in a traumatic injury, which tissue type is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Areolar and adipose tissue

Question 7

Which of the following glands secretes a product that is acidic and helps protect the skin from bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Eccrine sweat glands

Question 8

A person is unable to produce sweat in response to heat. Which structure is most likely malfunctioning?

Accepted Answer

Eccrine sweat gland

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

Contracts to make hair stand up in response to cold or emotional stress

Question 10

A patient has a mutation that prevents the formation of desmosomes in the epidermis. What is the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Cells will lose adhesion, leading to increased risk of blistering.

Question 11

Which layer of the epidermis is only found in thick skin, such as the palms and soles?

Accepted Answer

Stratum lucidum

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why the skin is able to act as a blood reservoir?

Accepted Answer

The dermis contains an extensive vascular network.

Question 13

A person with a deficiency in vitamin D synthesis is most likely to have a malfunction in which skin layer?

Accepted Answer

Stratum basale

Question 14

Which of the following is TRUE regarding sebaceous (oil) glands?

Accepted Answer

They release sebum into hair follicles.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the composition of sebum?

Accepted Answer

A mix of fats, cholesterol, proteins, salts, and pheromones

Question 16

A person is experiencing excessive heat loss due to lack of hair on the scalp. Which function of hair is most directly compromised?

Accepted Answer

Decrease in heat loss

Question 17

Which of the following equations best represents the relationship between sweat evaporation and body temperature regulation?

Accepted Answer

$\Delta T = -k \cdot E$

Question 18

A patient with a blocked eccrine sweat gland would most likely experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Impaired ability to cool the body through sweat

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct sequence of layers from the outermost to the innermost in the skin?

Accepted Answer

Stratum corneum, dermis, hypodermis, muscle

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why the acidity of sweat is important for skin health?

Accepted Answer

It inhibits bacterial growth on the skin surface.

Structure and Function of the Skin: Epidermis, Dermis, Hypodermis, and Skin Appendages

Study Guide - Practice Questions