FMGE Dermatology MCQs 2026: Important Questions with Answers and Explanations

FMGE Dermatology MCQs: Important Questions with Answers

Dermatology is an important part of medical exam preparation, covering skin anatomy, histology, pigmentation, hair growth and skin disorders. Practising FMGE Dermatology MCQs helps you revise these topics and understand how theoretical concepts are tested through multiple-choice questions.

Below are 10 important dermatology questions with answers and explanations to support your FMGE preparation.

1. Which of the following does not have a granular layer?

A. Ichthyosis vulgaris
B. Pityriasis
C. Lichen planus
D. Spongiosis

Correct Answer: A. Ichthyosis vulgaris

Explanation: In ichthyosis vulgaris, the granular layer of the epidermis is characteristically reduced or absent. This occurs due to abnormalities in epidermal differentiation, particularly involving filaggrin, and contributes to dry, scaly skin.

Why are the other options incorrect?

• Option B: Pityriasis — Pityriasis refers to a group of skin conditions. In conditions such as pityriasis rosea, the granular layer is generally preserved.

• Option C: Lichen planus — Lichen planus typically shows hypergranulosis, meaning the granular layer is thickened.

• Option D: Spongiosis — Spongiosis is intercellular oedema within the epidermis, commonly associated with eczematous conditions. It does not characteristically cause the granular layer to disappear.

2. Melanocytes account for what percentage of cells in the basal layer of the epidermis?

A. 2–3%
B. 20–25%
C. 50%
D. 5–10%

Correct Answer: D. 5–10%

Explanation: Melanocytes account for approximately 5–10% of the cells in the basal layer of the epidermis. These specialised cells produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. Melanin is transferred to surrounding keratinocytes, where it helps protect cellular DNA from ultraviolet radiation.

Why are the other options incorrect?

• Option A: 2–3% — This is lower than the approximate proportion expected in standard dermatology teaching.

• Option B: 20–25% — This overestimates the proportion of melanocytes in the basal layer.

• Option C: 50% — Melanocytes do not make up half of the basal-layer cells; keratinocytes are much more numerous.

3. Skin pigmentation or colour depends upon which factor?

A. Number of melanocytes
B. Rate of melanin synthesis
C. Both A and B
D. None of the above

Correct Answer: B. Rate of melanin synthesis

Explanation: Among the given options, the rate of melanin synthesis is the best answer. Normal differences in human skin colour are mainly related to the amount and type of melanin produced, along with the size, distribution and breakdown of melanosomes. The number of melanocytes is broadly similar across many skin types.

Why are the other options incorrect?

• Option A: Number of melanocytes — Differences in normal skin colour are not primarily explained by melanocyte numbers.

• Option C: Both A and B — This is not the best answer because the rate of melanin production and melanosome characteristics are more important determinants of normal skin-colour variation than melanocyte number.

• Option D: None of the above — Melanin synthesis directly influences skin pigmentation, so this option is incorrect.

4. An intact stratum corneum prevents the loss of which of the following from the skin?

A. Protein
B. Water
C. Structure
D. All of the above

Correct Answer: B. Water

Explanation: The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis and forms the main barrier against excessive water loss. It consists of flattened, keratin-filled corneocytes surrounded by intercellular lipids. This arrangement helps maintain skin hydration and protects the body from environmental irritants.

Damage to this barrier can increase transepidermal water loss, leading to dry, rough and irritated skin.

Why are the other options incorrect?

• Option A: Protein — Preventing protein loss is not the primary barrier function tested in this question.

• Option C: Structure — Structure is not a substance that is lost through the skin. The stratum corneum does provide mechanical protection, but the question focuses on water loss.

• Option D: All of the above — Water is the intended answer because the stratum corneum primarily limits excessive water loss.

5. Which numbered phase in the image represents active hair growth?

A. 2
B. 1
C. 3
D. All phases have equal hair growth

Correct Answer: B. 1

Explanation: Number 1 represents the anagen phase, the active growth phase of the hair cycle. During this phase, cells in the hair matrix divide actively and produce the hair shaft. The anagen phase can last several years on the scalp, and most scalp hairs are normally in this phase.

Why are the other options incorrect?

• Option A: 2 — This represents the catagen phase in the referenced diagram. It is a short transitional phase during which the hair follicle regresses.

• Option C: 3 — This represents the telogen phase, a resting phase of the hair cycle.

• Option D: All phases have equal hair growth — Hair growth is not equal in all phases. Active growth occurs during anagen, while catagen and telogen involve transition and rest.

Note: The answer depends on the numbering in the referenced image. Confirm that number 1 is labelled as anagen before publishing this question.

6. Which of the following statements about the epidermis is incorrect?

A. The epidermis contains only keratinocytes.
B. Its cellular thickness is about 35–50 μm.
C. Finger-like projections of the dermis into the epidermis are called dermal papillae.
D. The epidermis on the palms is very thick.

Correct Answer: A. The epidermis contains only keratinocytes.

Explanation: The epidermis contains several types of cells, not just keratinocytes. Keratinocytes are the predominant cells, but melanocytes, Langerhans cells and Merkel cells are also present.

• Keratinocytes: Produce keratin and form the main protective barrier.

• Melanocytes: Produce melanin, which contributes to skin pigmentation.

• Langerhans cells: Participate in immune defence as antigen-presenting cells.

• Merkel cells: Contribute to light-touch sensation.

Why are the other options incorrect?

• Option B: An epidermal thickness of approximately 35–50 μm can be a reasonable estimate for some regions of thin skin, although thickness varies considerably by body site.

• Option C: Dermal papillae are projections of the dermis into the epidermis. They help anchor the layers and increase their contact area.

• Option D: The epidermis of the palms and soles is particularly thick, especially because of its well-developed stratum corneum.

7. Which type of collagen is found in the structure marked with the red arrow?

A. Type IX
B. Type IV
C. Type II
D. It is a non-collagenous structure

Correct Answer: B. Type IV

Explanation: The referenced structure is identified as the basal lamina. Type IV collagen forms a network within the basement membrane and works with proteins such as laminin to provide structural support and help maintain tissue organisation.

Why are the other options incorrect?

• Option A: Type IX — Type IX collagen is primarily associated with cartilage.

• Option C: Type II — Type II collagen is a major collagen type in cartilage.

• Option D: It is a non-collagenous structure — The basal lamina contains Type IV collagen, so it is not entirely non-collagenous.

Note: The red-arrow image should be included with this question so candidates can identify the structure being tested.

8. Adult dermis mainly comprises which types of collagen?

A. Type IV
B. Types I and III
C. Types II and IV
D. Type IX

Correct Answer: B. Types I and III

Explanation: Type I and Type III collagen are the main collagen types in the dermis. Type I collagen provides tensile strength, while Type III collagen forms finer reticular fibres and contributes to the organisation and flexibility of connective tissue.

Together, these collagen types help the skin maintain its strength and structural integrity.

Why are the other options incorrect?

• Option A: Type IV — Type IV collagen is primarily associated with basement membranes.

• Option C: Types II and IV — Type II collagen is mainly found in cartilage, while Type IV is associated with basement membranes.

• Option D: Type IX — Type IX collagen is associated mainly with cartilage rather than the dermal connective tissue.

9. Atopic eczema affects approximately what percentage of the population under 12 years of age?

A. 1–2%
B. 15%
C. 35%
D. Rarely occurs

Correct Answer: B. 15%

Explanation: The expected answer in this question is approximately 15%. Atopic eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a common inflammatory skin condition in children. It often causes dry skin, itching, redness and recurring patches of inflammation.

The prevalence varies by country, age group and study, so the percentage should be understood as an approximate figure rather than a universal rate.

Why are the other options incorrect?

• Option A: 1–2% — This is lower than the estimate intended by the question.

• Option C: 35% — This is higher than the approximate prevalence stated in the question.

• Option D: Rarely occurs — Atopic eczema is common in childhood and is not a rare condition.

10. Desmosomes function as adhesion structures for which cells?

A. Melanocytes
B. Langerhans cells
C. Keratinocytes
D. None of the above

Correct Answer: C. Keratinocytes

Explanation: Desmosomes are specialised cell junctions that provide strong adhesion between neighbouring keratinocytes. They connect the intermediate filaments of adjacent cells, helping the epidermis withstand friction and mechanical stress.

These junctions are important for maintaining the structural integrity of the skin.

Why are the other options incorrect?

• Option A: Melanocytes — Melanocytes transfer melanin to keratinocytes through cellular processes. They are not the primary cells linked by epidermal desmosomes.

• Option B: Langerhans cells — Langerhans cells perform immune functions within the epidermis and are not the principal cells joined by desmosomes.

• Option D: None of the above — Keratinocytes are connected by desmosomes, making Option C correct.

Attempt More FMGE Dermatology MCQs at PW MedEd

Practise more FMGE Dermatology MCQs with PW MedEd to test your knowledge, revise important concepts and identify topics that need more attention. Regular practice can help you improve accuracy and prepare for the exam with greater confidence.

Download the PW MedEd app to access medical exam preparation resources and continue your FMGE practice.

How to Prepare for FMGE Dermatology MCQs

To prepare effectively, revise the basic structure and functions of the skin before moving to clinical dermatology topics. Focus on epidermal layers, skin cells, collagen types, hair-cycle phases and common inflammatory skin conditions.

Follow these steps during practice:

1. Attempt each MCQ before reading its explanation.

2. Review why the correct option is right and why the other options are incorrect.

3. Make short notes of facts that are easy to confuse, such as collagen types and epidermal cell functions.

4. Revisit incorrect questions after a few days to check your recall.

5. Practise additional dermatology questions and revise the concepts behind your mistakes.

Regular practice, combined with conceptual revision, can help you improve your accuracy and recall for the FMGE examination.

FMGE Dermatology MCQs help you revise essential topics in skin anatomy, histology, pigmentation, hair growth and common skin conditions. Practise these 10 questions, understand the explanations and revisit any concepts you find difficult. Combining MCQ practice with regular revision can help strengthen your dermatology preparation.

Related Resources: 

• FMGE 2026 October Admit Card

• FMGE October 2026 Application Form 

•  FMGE October 2026

• FMGE Syllabus And Exam Pattern

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