Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

It provides a tough, protective barrier against biological, chemical, and physical assaults.

Question 2

A patient presents with a deep cut that penetrates through the epidermis and into the dermis. Which of the following structures is most likely to be directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Blood vessels and nerve endings

Question 3

Which layer of the epidermis is responsible for the generation of new skin cells and contains melanocytes?

Accepted Answer

Stratum basale

Question 4

During thermoregulation, which physiological response occurs when the body is exposed to a hot environment?

Accepted Answer

Dilation of dermal blood vessels and increased sweat gland activity

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why the stratum lucidum is only found in certain areas of the body?

Accepted Answer

It is only found in thick skin, such as the palms and soles, to provide extra protection.

Question 6

A person with a genetic mutation that reduces the function of their eccrine sweat glands would most likely experience which of the following symptoms during exercise?

Accepted Answer

Difficulty maintaining normal body temperature, leading to overheating

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT a function of the integumentary system?

Accepted Answer

Regulation of blood glucose levels

Question 8

A patient has a mutation that prevents the production of melanin. Which of the following consequences is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Increased susceptibility to UV radiation damage

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

They are macrophages that activate the immune system.

Question 10

A 45-year-old male develops male pattern baldness. Which hormone is primarily responsible for this condition?

Accepted Answer

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

Question 11

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

Accepted Answer

Up to 5% of the body's blood volume can be found in the skin at any given time.

Question 12

A patient with a severe burn loses the stratum corneum. Which of the following is the most immediate risk?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of infection and dehydration

Question 13

Which of the following glands is responsible for producing an oily secretion that softens hair and skin and has bactericidal properties?

Accepted Answer

Sebaceous glands

Question 14

A person is exposed to cold temperatures for an extended period. Which of the following physiological responses would you expect?

Accepted Answer

Constriction of dermal blood vessels and decreased skin temperature

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the composition and function of the hypodermis?

Accepted Answer

It is composed mostly of adipose tissue, absorbs shock, insulates, and anchors skin to underlying structures.

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct sequence of the layers of the epidermis from deepest to most superficial in thick skin?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 17

A patient has a genetic disorder that prevents the formation of desmosomes in the epidermis. Which of the following symptoms would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Fragile skin that blisters easily due to poor keratinocyte adhesion

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why older adults are more prone to skin infections and cancer?

Accepted Answer

Decreased numbers of melanocytes and dendritic cells

Question 19

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

Accepted Answer

Contains areolar connective tissue and forms dermal papillae that contribute to fingerprints

Question 20

A patient presents with dry, itchy, and thin skin. Which of the following age-related changes is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Decreased epidermal replacement and reduced sebaceous gland activity

The Integumentary System: Structure, Function, and Thermoregulation

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