Esthetician Practice Exam Esthetician Practice Skin Histology and Disorders Questions and Answers 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which layer of the epidermis contains cells that are actively dividing through mitosis?
- Stratum corneum
- Stratum basale (Correct answer)
- Stratum granulosum
- Stratum lucidum
Correct answer: Stratum basale
The stratum basale is the deepest epidermal layer where keratinocytes undergo mitotic division to produce new skin cells.
Question 2: A client presents with symmetrical, brown patches on the cheeks and forehead that worsened during pregnancy. What is the most likely condition?
- Vitiligo
- Melasma (Correct answer)
- Tinea versicolor
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Correct answer: Melasma
Melasma is a hormonally triggered hyperpigmentation condition commonly appearing as symmetrical brown patches on the face during pregnancy.
Question 3: What protein provides the skin with its waterproof barrier function in the stratum corneum?
- Collagen
- Elastin
- Keratin (Correct answer)
- Melanin
Correct answer: Keratin
Keratin is a tough, fibrous protein that fills corneocytes in the stratum corneum, creating the skin's waterproof protective barrier.
Question 4: Which skin disorder is characterized by silvery-white scales on raised, erythematous plaques and is considered autoimmune in nature?
- Eczema
- Psoriasis (Correct answer)
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Contact dermatitis
Correct answer: Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition causing rapid skin cell turnover that results in thick, silvery-white scales on red, inflamed plaques.
Question 5: Langerhans cells found in the epidermis are primarily responsible for which function?
- Melanin production
- Tactile sensation
- Immune defense (Correct answer)
- Sebum secretion
Correct answer: Immune defense
Langerhans cells are dendritic immune cells in the epidermis that detect and present foreign antigens to activate the body's immune response.
Question 6: A client has small, flesh-colored, dome-shaped bumps with a central dimple, commonly seen in clusters. What condition is this?
- Milia
- Molluscum contagiosum (Correct answer)
- Keratosis pilaris
- Closed comedones
Correct answer: Molluscum contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection characterized by small, firm, dome-shaped papules with a characteristic central umbilication.
Which layer of the epidermis contains cells that are actively dividing through mitosis?