Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of melanocytes in the epidermis?

Accepted Answer

They produce melanin to absorb ultraviolet (UV) light.

Question 2

A patient presents with a deep laceration that exposes adipose tissue. Which layer of the integumentary system has been penetrated?

Accepted Answer

The dermis and subcutaneous tissue

Question 3

Which of the following is a correct breakdown of the term 'piloerection'?

Accepted Answer

pil/o- = hair, -ion = action or condition, erect/o- = stand up

Question 4

Which of the following best explains why sweat becomes odorous?

Accepted Answer

Sweat is odorless until it contacts bacteria on the skin’s surface.

Question 5

A patient with a pressure injury on the heel has tissue death in the affected area. What is the medical term for this condition?

Accepted Answer

Necrosis

Question 6

Which of the following is a function of the subcutaneous (subQ) tissue?

Accepted Answer

Cushioning and insulating the body

Question 7

A patient is diagnosed with tinea capitis. Which of the following best describes this condition?

Accepted Answer

A fungal infection of the scalp causing round lesions and hair loss

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the process of thermoregulation by the integumentary system?

Accepted Answer

Sudoriferous glands produce sweat and dermal blood vessels dilate to release heat.

Question 9

Which of the following is a characteristic of a malignant melanoma?

Accepted Answer

Asymmetry, irregular edges, varying color, and size greater than $$\frac{1}{4}$$ inch

Question 10

A punch biopsy removes a core of tissue for examination. Which layers are included in this sample?

Accepted Answer

Epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the role of the basal layer of the epidermis in wound healing?

Accepted Answer

It produces new living cells that move upward to cover the wound.

Question 12

A patient with psoriasis will most likely present with which of the following skin findings?

Accepted Answer

Elevated, erythematous lesions topped by silvery scales

Question 13

Which of the following is true regarding the anatomy of the nail?

Accepted Answer

The cuticle is the edge around the base of the nail.

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the function of sebum?

Accepted Answer

It moisturizes the skin and hair shaft.

Question 15

A patient with acne vulgaris is experiencing increased activity of which gland?

Accepted Answer

Sebaceous gland

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct definition of 'dermatome' in the context of the integumentary system?

Accepted Answer

An area of skin that sends sensory information to the spinal cord

Question 17

Which of the following best explains why the epidermis is considered avascular?

Accepted Answer

It relies on blood vessels in the dermis for nutrients.

Question 18

A patient with onychomycosis is most likely to have which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Thickened, discolored nails

Question 19

Which of the following is a real-life example of homeostasis involving the integumentary system?

Accepted Answer

Sweat glands increase secretion to cool the body during exercise.

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the process by which vitamin D is synthesized in the skin?

Accepted Answer

UV rays convert epidermal cholesterol into vitamin D, which helps absorb calcium.

Integumentary System: Medical Terminology and Clinical Concepts

Study Guide - Practice Questions