Blackboard 8. Skin-softening agents are referred to as:
A. Emollients
B. Keratolytics
C. Tar treatments
D. Ointments
9.Agents that separate or loosen the horny layer of the epidermis are referred to as: a. astringents b. tar treatments c. keratolytics d. emollients 10. Epidermal cells that produce keratin are known a. subdural cells b. erythemal cells c. epithelial cells d. keratinocytes 11. The term pruritus is defined as: a. itching b. scaling c. burning d. peeling 12. Keratin formation or the development of a horny layer is known as: a. acne b. keratinization C. vaginosis d. keratolysis 13. A fungal infection caused by a related group of yeasts, mostly Candida albicans, is known as: a. tinea cruris b. tinea unguium c. candidiasis d. tinea pedis 14. Dermatologic conditions caused by mites that burrow into the skin, causing intense itching, are known as: a. flora b. scabies Topical which of the fo
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Here are the correct answers for each question followed by a detailed explanation:
8. Skin-softening agents are referred to as:
✅ a. emollients
9. Agents that separate or loosen the horny layer of the epidermis are referred to as:
✅ c. keratolytics
10. Epidermal cells that produce keratin are known as:
✅ d. keratinocytes
11. The term pruritus is defined as:
✅ a. itching
12. Keratin formation or the development of a horny layer is known as:
✅ b. keratinization
13. A fungal infection caused by a related group of yeasts, mostly Candida albicans, is known as:
✅ c. candidiasis
14. Dermatologic conditions caused by mites that burrow into the skin, causing intense itching, are known as:
✅ b. scabies
🩺 Detailed Explanation (300+ words)
The skin is the body’s largest organ and plays a vital role in protection, thermoregulation, and sensation. Several dermatological agents and terms help us understand and treat skin-related conditions.
Emollients are substances used to soften and moisturize the skin. They form a protective barrier that helps retain moisture, making them crucial in treating conditions like eczema and dry skin. By improving skin hydration, emollients reduce irritation and improve skin texture.
Keratolytics are agents that help in the shedding of the outer layer of the skin (stratum corneum), which is rich in keratin. These are used to treat warts, calluses, and psoriasis by breaking down the hardened keratin and facilitating exfoliation. Common examples include salicylic acid and urea.
Keratinocytes are the primary type of cell found in the epidermis. They produce keratin, a structural protein that helps protect the skin from environmental damage such as pathogens and dehydration. As keratinocytes mature, they undergo keratinization, a process in which they move upward through the layers of the skin, accumulate more keratin, and eventually die, forming the tough outermost layer.
Pruritus is the medical term for itching, which is a common symptom in many skin disorders. It can be triggered by dry skin, allergic reactions, infections, or systemic conditions like liver disease.
Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused primarily by Candida albicans. It can affect the skin, mouth (oral thrush), genital areas (vaginal candidiasis), and other moist body areas. It often presents as red, itchy, and moist patches with satellite lesions.
Scabies is a parasitic infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. It burrows into the skin to lay eggs, causing intense itching, especially at night. It spreads via close contact and requires treatment with topical scabicides like permethrin.