Q13. Identify the skin receptor shown in the image:

Appeared in: INI-CET EXAM -2026

Explanation

The image is a flowchart explicitly titled 'Pacinian Corpuscle Process', directly identifying the receptor in question.
The flowchart mentions the 'Formation of Concentric Lamellae (Onion Skin)', which is the classic histological description of a Pacinian corpuscle.
Pacinian corpuscles are rapidly adapting mechanoreceptors specialized for detecting deep pressure and high-frequency vibration.
They are located in the deeper layers of the skin (dermis and hypodermis), as well as in joints and internal organs.

Option B: Merkel discs are slow-adapting receptors for light, sustained touch and texture, located superficially in the epidermis.
Option C: Ruffini endings are slow-adapting receptors that detect skin stretch and sustained pressure, not high-frequency vibration.
Option D: Meissner corpuscles detect light touch and low-frequency vibration and are located in the superficial dermal papillae.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of cutaneous mechanoreceptors based on structure and function as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Assessing a patient's ability to sense vibration (using a tuning fork) is a key part of a neurological examination. This tests the function of the dorsal column pathway, in which Pacinian corpuscles play a crucial role.
Loss of vibration sense can be an early sign of peripheral neuropathy, a common complication of conditions like diabetes mellitus or vitamin B12 deficiency.
What if? If a patient with diabetes reports numbness and tingling in their feet, a nurse would use a tuning fork to test for vibratory sense. An inability to feel the vibration would suggest damage to large nerve fibers and Pacinian corpuscles, indicating advancing neuropathy and a high risk for foot injuries.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully examine the entire image provided, including any titles, labels, or text within it.
The title of the flowchart is 'Pacinian Corpuscle Process'. This directly gives away the answer.
Note key terms in the flowchart, such as 'Formation of Concentric Lamellae (Onion Skin)', which is a unique characteristic of the Pacinian corpuscle.
Compare the information from the image with the given options.
Select the option that directly matches the name and characteristics identified in the image.
Even if the answer seems obvious, briefly review the functions of the other receptors to confirm they are incorrect and to reinforce your knowledge.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Identification of cutaneous mechanoreceptors based on structure and function.
Stem keywords: skin receptor, image
Lead-in keywords: Identify
Clinical cues: Flowchart titled 'Pacinian Corpuscle Process'

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E6 Anatomy Grays 43e Vol 1 Part 1 p. 98-100

E6 Physiology Guyton 4SAE Part 3 p. 96-98

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Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.