PATHOLOGY

PATHOLOGY MCQ

SKIN

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
Which cells create the pigment that gives skin its color?
A
melanocytes
B
keratinocytes
C
erythrocytes
D
adipocytes
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -Melanocyte is a highly differentiated cell that produces a pigment melanin inside melanosomes. This cell is dark and dendritic in shape. Melanin production is the basic function of melanocyte.

Detailed explanation-2: -Melanocytes, found in the deep basal layer of the epidermis, contain brown granules called melanin. Besides contributing to skin color, melanin provides protection during episodes of sun exposure. Carotene found in subcutaneous fat tissue contributes to the yellowish color of the skin.

Detailed explanation-3: -Melanocytes, which are derived from the neural crest, are unique in that they produce eu-/pheo-melanin pigments in unique membrane-bound organelles termed melanosomes, which can be divided into four stages depending on their degree of maturation.

Detailed explanation-4: -The purpose of melanogenesis is to protect the hypodermis, the layer under the skin, from damage by UV radiation. The color of the melanin is black, allowing it to absorb a majority of the UV light and block it from passing through the epidermis.

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