American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

What is another name for the subcutaneous layer of the skin?

1. Dermis

2. Hypodermis

3. Epiderma

4. Superficial Fascia

The correct answer is: Hypodermis

The subcutaneous layer of the skin is also known as the hypodermis. This layer lies beneath the dermis and primarily consists of fat and connective tissue, serving several important functions. It acts as an insulator, helping to regulate body temperature, and provides cushioning to absorb shocks. Additionally, the hypodermis serves as an anchor, connecting the skin to underlying structures, such as muscles and bones, while allowing the skin to move freely. The other options represent different layers or aspects of the skin. The dermis is the layer situated between the epidermis and the hypodermis, rich in blood vessels, hair follicles, and connective tissue. The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, primarily made up of keratinized cells. Superficial fascia is a term often used interchangeably with hypodermis but generally refers to the connective tissue layer that separates the skin from underlying structures, which includes but is not limited to the fat found in the hypodermis. Thus, "hypodermis" directly and accurately refers to the subcutaneous layer itself.