American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

Which structure is NOT typically found in the dermis?

1. Hair follicles

2. Nerves

3. Melanocytes

4. Blood vessels

The correct answer is: Melanocytes

The dermis is a critical layer of skin located beneath the epidermis and contains various structures that play essential roles in the function and health of the skin. While hair follicles, nerves, and blood vessels are integral components of the dermis, melanocytes are primarily located in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. Melanocytes are specialized cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color and protects against ultraviolet (UV) radiation. They are found in the basal layer of the epidermis, where they interact with keratinocytes to contribute to skin pigmentation. Since the question specifically asks for a structure not typically found in the dermis, melanocytes fit this criteria perfectly, as they are predominantly situated in the epidermal layer. In contrast, hair follicles are embedded in the dermis, where they originate and grow. Nerves within the dermis provide sensation and contribute to the sense of touch, while blood vessels supply nutrients and help regulate temperature. Thus, these structures are indeed typical components of the dermal layer, affirming why melanocytes are not included in this group.