Which tissue in the hypodermis is described as loose connective tissue containing collagen?

• A. Adipose tissue
• B. Dense connective tissue
• C. Areolar tissue
• D. Cartilage

Answer: (C)

Areolar tissue is the loose connective tissue in the hypodermis that contains collagen. The hypodermis lies beneath the dermis and is made up of a loose network of fibrous tissue and fat, with blood vessels running through it. Areolar tissue has a loose, open arrangement of collagen and elastic fibers in a gel-like matrix, plus various cells, which gives it flexibility, cushions underlying structures, and allows nutrients to diffuse to the dermis. This distinguishes it from dense connective tissue, where collagen fibers are tightly packed and provide high strength (as in tendons and ligaments), and from adipose tissue, which is primarily for fat storage. Cartilage is a different connective tissue type altogether and isn’t a hypodermal component.