American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

What term describes the layer of tissue located just beneath the epidermis?

1. Subcutaneous

2. Intradermal

3. Hypodermic

4. Melanin

The correct answer is: Subcutaneous

The term that describes the layer of tissue located just beneath the epidermis is the subcutaneous layer, also known as the hypodermis. This layer serves several important functions. It acts as a cushion, absorbing shock and protecting the underlying muscles and bones from injury. Additionally, the subcutaneous layer serves as an insulator, helping to regulate body temperature by minimizing heat loss. It is also a repository for fat cells, which store energy and contribute to the overall energy balance of the body. The other terms provided do not accurately describe the layer beneath the epidermis. Intradermal refers to something occurring within the dermis, which is deeper than the epidermis, while hypodermic typically pertains to injections or administration of substances beneath the skin but does not specifically denote the layer beneath the epidermis. Melanin, on the other hand, is a pigment produced in the skin and does not refer to a layer of tissue at all. This context clarifies why the subcutaneous layer is the correct response in identifying the tissue just beneath the epidermis.