American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

What characterizes the stratum Reticulare layer?

1. A thin layer of loose connective tissue

2. A thick layer of dense, irregular connective tissue

3. A layer rich in blood vessels

4. A layer with abundant nerve endings

The correct answer is: A thick layer of dense, irregular connective tissue

The stratum reticulare is characterized as a thick layer of dense, irregular connective tissue found within the dermis of the skin. This particular layer plays a crucial role in providing structural integrity and elasticity to the skin. Its dense composition allows it to resist stretches and stresses, making it vital for the skin’s overall durability. Within the stratum reticulare, collagen and elastin fibers are arranged in a haphazard manner, which contributes to the skin's resilience and ability to withstand various forces. This layer also serves as an anchor point for skin appendages, such as hair follicles and glands, and houses essential components like blood vessels and nerve endings, though it is primarily the dense, irregular structure that defines it. The other options describe characteristics that do not align with the primary function or composition of the stratum reticulare. A thin layer of loose connective tissue would better describe the papillary layer above it, which is responsible for providing nutrients and housing capillaries and sensory receptors. While the stratum reticulare does contain blood vessels, its defining feature remains its thickness and density. Similarly, while nerve endings are present, they are not a defining characteristic of this particular layer.