Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

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What is the name of the spiny layer of the skin?

Stratum corneum
Stratum granulosum
Stratum spinosum
Stratum lucidum

The correct answer is: Stratum spinosum

The spiny layer of the skin is referred to as the stratum spinosum. This layer is found between the stratum basale and the stratum granulosum within the epidermis. The term "spinosum" comes from the spiny appearance of the cells in this layer, which occurs due to the presence of desmosomes—structures that connect adjacent cells. These connections give the cells a spiny look when viewed under a microscope. The stratum spinosum is essential for providing structural support and strength to the skin. It is also a vital part of the skin’s immune response, as it contains Langerhans cells, which help in recognizing and fighting against pathogens. Overall, the stratum spinosum plays a crucial role in the protective functions of the skin, making it a fundamental layer in the epidermal structure. The other layers mentioned, such as the stratum corneum, stratum granulosum, and stratum lucidum, serve different functions related to skin protection and hydration but do not share the spiny characteristic that defines the stratum spinosum.