Question 1

Which of the following best explains why the epidermis is avascular and how this affects its structure and function?

Accepted Answer

The epidermis is avascular, relying on diffusion from the dermis for nutrients and oxygen, which restricts its thickness and causes superficial layers to consist of dead cells.

Question 2

A patient presents with a deep cut that bleeds and is painful. Which layer(s) of the skin must have been penetrated, and why?

Accepted Answer

The dermis, because it is highly vascular and contains sensory receptors that detect pain.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the role of melanocytes in the integumentary system?

Accepted Answer

Melanocytes synthesize melanin, which protects keratinocyte DNA from UV-induced mutations.

Question 4

Which of the following is a direct result of the negative feedback loop involved in thermoregulation by the integumentary system?

Accepted Answer

Increased sweating and vasodilation in response to rising body temperature.

Question 5

A person with albinism is at increased risk for which of the following, and why?

Accepted Answer

Keratinocyte DNA damage from UV radiation, because they cannot produce tyrosinase and thus lack melanin.

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why fingerprints are unique to each individual?

Accepted Answer

They result from genetically determined patterns of dermal and epidermal ridges.

Question 7

Which of the following is a function of the reticular layer of the dermis?

Accepted Answer

It strengthens the skin with dense irregular connective tissue and collagen bundles.

Question 8

A person moves from a region with low UV exposure to one with high UV exposure. Over time, what changes would you expect in their skin, and why?

Accepted Answer

Increased production of melanin to protect keratinocyte DNA from UV damage.

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

Keratinocytes migrate from the stratum basale to the stratum corneum, accumulating keratin and eventually dying.

Question 10

Which of the following is a correct statement about the hypodermis?

Accepted Answer

It is not part of the skin, but anchors the skin to deeper structures and contains adipose tissue.

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why the skin is able to act as a barrier to water and electrolyte loss?

Accepted Answer

The presence of hydrophobic lipid-based chemicals secreted by keratinocytes and sebaceous glands.

Question 12

A patient presents with pallor (pale skin). Which of the following is the most likely physiological explanation?

Accepted Answer

Decreased blood flow in the dermis, possibly due to cold, anemia, or sympathetic activation.

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the function of arrector pili muscles?

Accepted Answer

They contract to cause hair to stand up, producing 'goosebumps' in response to cold or emotional stimuli.

Question 14

Which of the following glands is responsible for producing earwax, and what is its function?

Accepted Answer

Ceruminous glands; their secretion traps particles and lubricates the ear canal.

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why wrinkles form with aging?

Accepted Answer

Decreased collagen, elastic fibers, proteoglycans, and adipose tissue in the dermis, reducing firmness and elasticity.

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct statement about the difference between terminal and vellus hair?

Accepted Answer

Terminal hair is thick, coarse, and pigmented, while vellus hair is thin and nonpigmented.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the secretion method of sebaceous glands?

Accepted Answer

They use holocrine secretion, releasing sebum by rupturing the entire cell.

Question 18

A person with a genetic mutation causing overactive tyrosinase in melanocytes would most likely exhibit which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Increased melanin production and darker skin.

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why there is no such thing as a 'healthy tan'?

Accepted Answer

Both UVA and UVB rays damage DNA and melanocytes, increasing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.

The Integumentary System: Structure, Function, and Components

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