Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which fibers are dispersed to sweat and oil glands?

1. Motor nerve fibers

2. Secretory nerve fibers

3. Sensory nerve fibers

4. Fibrous nerve fibers

The correct answer is: Secretory nerve fibers

Secretory nerve fibers are responsible for controlling the sebaceous (oil) and sweat glands in the skin. These fibers are a type of autonomic nerve fiber that specifically stimulate these glands to produce sweat and oil in response to various physiological and environmental stimuli. The function of secretory nerve fibers is essential for maintaining skin hydration and regulating body temperature through the secretion of sweat, while also providing necessary lubrication via oil secretion. This process is critical for overall skin health and helps protect against dryness and irritation. The other types of nerve fibers listed do not perform this specific function: motor nerve fibers control muscle movements, sensory nerve fibers transmit sensory information such as touch and temperature to the brain, and fibrous nerve fibers are not a recognized category related to glandular secretion. Thus, the focus on secretory nerve fibers highlights their vital role in the functioning of sweat and oil glands.