Question 1

Which layer of the epidermis is primarily responsible for the generation of new keratinocytes, and what is the functional significance of this process?

Accepted Answer

Stratum basale; it contains stem cells that divide to replace lost or shed keratinocytes, maintaining the integrity of the epidermis.

Question 2

A patient presents with a deep cut on the palm of their hand. Which layer of the epidermis would be absent in a similar cut on the forearm, and why?

Accepted Answer

Stratum lucidum; because it is only present in thick skin such as the palms and soles.

Question 3

Which of the following best explains why the epidermis is avascular and how it receives nutrients?

Accepted Answer

The epidermis is avascular and relies on diffusion of nutrients and oxygen from capillaries in the underlying dermis.

Question 4

A person with a genetic defect that prevents the production of keratohyalin would most likely have abnormalities in which layer of the epidermis, and what would be the consequence?

Accepted Answer

Stratum granulosum; impaired dehydration and aggregation of keratin fibers, leading to weaker skin barrier.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

It contains areolar tissue with capillaries, lymphatics, and sensory nerve fibers that supply the epidermis.

Question 6

A surgeon is planning an incision on a patient’s back. Why is it important to consider the orientation of tension lines (cleavage lines) in the skin?

Accepted Answer

Incisions made parallel to tension lines are more likely to remain closed and heal with minimal scarring.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

It is not part of the integument but stabilizes the skin and consists mainly of adipose tissue, serving as an energy reserve and shock absorber.

Question 8

A child living in an area with little sunlight and a diet lacking in vitamin D develops rickets. Which step in vitamin D3 metabolism is most directly impaired in this scenario?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) in the skin from a steroid precursor under UV radiation.

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why fingertips wrinkle after prolonged exposure to water?

Accepted Answer

Constriction of underlying blood vessels by the autonomic nervous system causes the skin to shrink and wrinkle, improving grip.

Question 10

Which of the following is a function of sebum produced by sebaceous glands?

Accepted Answer

It inhibits bacterial growth, lubricates and protects the hair shaft, and conditions the surrounding skin.

Question 11

A patient with a burn that destroys the stratum corneum is at increased risk for which of the following complications?

Accepted Answer

Increased insensible water loss, leading to dehydration.

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the main difference between apocrine and eccrine sweat glands?

Accepted Answer

Eccrine glands are widely distributed and primarily involved in thermoregulation, while apocrine glands are localized and produce a thicker, odoriferous secretion.

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct sequence of events in the repair of the integument after injury?

Accepted Answer

Inflammation phase → Migration phase → Proliferation phase → Scarring phase

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why hair color changes with age?

Accepted Answer

Decreased pigment production by melanocytes at the hair matrix, sometimes combined with air bubbles in the medulla.

Question 15

A patient is diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis. Which gland is primarily involved, and what is a common symptom?

Accepted Answer

Sebaceous gland; red, oily, and scaly patches on the scalp.

Question 16

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

Accepted Answer

It contracts to move the hair follicle, causing the hair to stand erect, which in humans is a vestigial response to cold or emotional states.

Question 17

Which of the following is a real-world application of analyzing hair samples in medicine or forensics?

Accepted Answer

Determining the presence of lead or other heavy metals in cases of suspected poisoning.

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why the skin is considered a blood reservoir?

Accepted Answer

The subcutaneous layer contains a substantial volume of blood in its venous circulation, which can shift to the general circulation if needed.

Question 19

Which of the following is a function of the nail structure in humans?

Accepted Answer

Nails protect the tips of fingers and toes and help limit distortion from mechanical stress.

Ch 5: The Integumentary System: Structure, Function, and Repair

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