The integumentary system

Question 1

What is an alternative name given to the subcutaneous layer?

Answer 1

Hypodermis

Question 2

Name the pigment secreted by specialised cells in the skin that is capable of absorbing ultraviolet light

Answer 2

Melanin

Question 3

What is keratin?

Answer 3

Keratin is a structural protein produced by keratinocytes, the primary cell type in the epidermis, it is essential for the skin’s strength, waterproofing, and protective barrier against stressors

Question 4

What is the role of melatonin in relation to skin?

Answer 4

It protects the skin from oxidative stress, UV radiation, and inflammation, regulates pigmentation, and supports wound healing processes

Question 5

What is the role of Carotene in relation to skin?

Answer 5

It supports skin health by contributing to coloration, antioxidant defence, UV protection, and Vitamin A synthesis

Question 6

What is the role of collagen in relation to skin?

Answer 6

It is a structural protein that forms a key component of the extracellular matrix in the skin, and is essential for skin structure, elasticity, hydration, and repair

Question 7

What are langerhans cells?

Answer 7

A specialised immune cell found in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, they are crucial for detecting and responding to external threats e.g. pathogens / harmful substances

Question 8

What are merkel cells?

Answer 8

Specialised sensory cells found in the epidermis, they are involved in sensation of light touch and are particularly important for detecting textures, shapes, and edges

Question 9

What cells male up the stratum basale

Answer 9

This layer of epidermis is composed of a single row of cuboidal or columnar keratinocytes

Question 10

Where is stratum lucidum found?

Answer 10

In thick skin

Question 11

Which layer of the epidermis thickens as a result of constant exposure to friction, leading to the formation of a callus?

Answer 11

Stratum corneum

Question 12

What kind of tissue is the dermis mostly made up of?

Answer 12

Dense irregular connective tissue containing collagen and elastic fibres

Question 13

What is the role of sweat glands in skin?

Answer 13

They are essential for thermoregulation, waste excretion, and skin protection

Question 14

What are the features of a keloid scar?

Answer 14

Overgrowth of fibrous tissue that forms at the site of a skin injury, extending beyond the original wound boundaries, it is caused by an excessive production of collagen during the healing process