An 81-year-old woman has noted a gradual decrease in the moisture of her skin over many years. Which phenomena associated with the aging process are known to contribute to her xerosis? Select all that apply.
A) Separation of the basement membrane from adjacent dermal and epidermal layers
B) Changing composition of sebaceous gland secretions
C) Flattening of the dermal rete ridges
D) Decreased moisture secretions from sweat glands
E) Decrease in skin capillaries

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The effects of aging on skin dryness include a change in the composition of sebaceous gland secretions and a decrease in the secretion of moisture from the sweat glands.Aging is also accompanied by a decrease in skin capillaries and flattening of the dermal rete ridges resulting in less surface area for exchange of fluids between the dermis, epidermis, and skin surface. Separation of the basement membrane is not noted to be a normal accompaniment to aging.

An 81-Year-Old Woman Has Noted a Gradual Decrease in the Moisture