B. Stratum germinativum – Explanation
| Epidermis – 5 layers – bottom layer = stratum germinativum which gives rise to keratinocytes and contains melanocytes |
Epidermis
The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin and is composed of a stratified squamous
epithelium with an underlying basal lamina
It may be divided in to five layers:
| Layer | Description |
|---|---|
| Stratum corneum | Flat, dead, scale-like cells filled with keratin Continually shed |
| Stratum lucidum | Clear layer – present in thick skin only |
| Stratum granulosum | Cells form links with neighbours |
| Stratum spinosum | Squamous cells begin keratin synthesis Thickest layer of epidermis |
| Stratum germinativum | The basement membrane – single layer of columnar Gives rise to keratinocytes Contains melanocytes |
