OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

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How long does it take for a basal cell to be pushed up to the stratum corneum?

1 week
2 weeks
1 month
2 months

The correct answer is: 2 weeks

The time it takes for a basal cell to be pushed up to the stratum corneum is approximately two weeks. This process is a part of the skin's natural cycle of regeneration and turnover. Basal cells, located in the deepest layer of the epidermis, undergo continuous division. As new cells are produced, they push older cells toward the surface of the skin. This journey through the various layers of the epidermis takes about two weeks. The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis and consists of dead cells that have undergone a process called keratinization, where they lose their nuclei and accumulate keratin. Once the cells reach the stratum corneum, they will eventually shed off over time, contributing to the skin's continuous renewal process. This understanding of skin cell turnover is crucial for medical technologists who deal with skin health and conditions, providing them with a broader perspective on healing and regeneration processes.