Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is known to damage skin; excessive exposure can cause enough damage to stimulate acute inflammation (sunburn). Histologic examination of the epidermis shows a layer of keratinocytes that have committed premature apoptosis (killed themselves before they normally would have died) and a lack of Langerhans cells in the affected region. Severe sunburns are followed several days later with non-bleeding blistering and peeling of large patches of skin. In the following weeks, the epidermis becomes thicker and darker (tan!). Hypothesize about which layers and/or sublayers of the skin are primarily affected; and about why the blistering, peeling, thickening, and darkening occurs. Be sure to explain your reasoning. This answer requires a logical hypothesis based on what we’ve learned about the specific microanatomy of the skin; it does not require “THE” correct answer.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is known to damage skin; excessive exposure can cause enough damage to stimulate acute inflammation (sunburn).
Histologic examination of the epidermis shows a layer of keratinocytes that have committed premature apoptosis (killed themselves before they normally would have died) and a lack of Langerhans cells in the affected region. Severe sunburns are followed several days later with non-bleeding blistering and peeling of large patches of skin. In the following weeks, the epidermis becomes thicker and darker (tan!).
Hypothesize about which layers and/or sublayers of the skin are primarily affected; and about why the blistering, peeling, thickening, and darkening occurs. Be sure to explain your reasoning. This answer requires a logical hypothesis based on what we’ve learned about the specific microanatomy of the skin; it does not require “THE” correct answer.
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