Anatomy & Physiology of the Skin Flashcards
7 cards from real AAM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Anatomy & Physiology of the Skin flashcards as text
Which epidermal sublayer is characterized by flattened, anucleate cells packed with keratin and serves as the skin's outermost barrier?
Answer: Stratum corneum
The stratum corneum consists of dead, keratin-filled corneocytes that form the primary physical and chemical barrier of the skin against the environment.
Which cells in the dermis synthesize collagen, elastin, and the extracellular matrix components of the dermis?
Answer: Fibroblasts
Fibroblasts are the primary connective tissue cells of the dermis and are responsible for producing collagen, elastin, and ground substance that give skin its structure.
What is the likely outcome when micropigmentation pigment is deposited too superficially within the upper epidermis?
Answer: Pigment fades rapidly as epidermal cells shed
Pigment placed too superficially in the epidermis is lost quickly through normal desquamation (cell shedding), resulting in rapid and uneven fading.
Which skin condition is generally considered a contraindication for micropigmentation procedures?
Answer: Active psoriasis or eczema in the treatment area
Active inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema in the treatment area are contraindications because they can trigger the Koebner phenomenon and compromise healing and pigment retention.
How does an overactive sebaceous gland (oily skin) affect micropigmentation pigment retention?
Answer: It can cause pigment to appear softer and may reduce retention
Excess sebum from overactive sebaceous glands can interfere with pigment implantation and retention, often resulting in softer, less crisp results that fade more quickly.
Which region of the dermis lies directly beneath the epidermis and contains the densest network of capillaries and nerve endings?
Answer: Papillary dermis
The papillary dermis is the upper portion of the dermis, named for its finger-like projections (papillae) that interlock with the epidermis and contain capillaries, lymphatics, and sensory nerve endings.
What is the primary role of elastin fibers in the dermis as it relates to aging and micropigmentation outcomes?
Answer: Elastin allows skin to stretch and return to its original shape
Elastin fibers give skin its elasticity and resilience; as they degrade with age, skin loses rebound, which can affect how pigment sits in aged or sun-damaged skin.