🏥 USMLE Exam Prep

Which primary germ layer gives rise to the epidermis, brain, and spinal cord?

A Mesoderm
B Endoderm
C Ectoderm
D Neural crest

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

The ectoderm is the outermost germ layer and differentiates into the epidermis, hair, nails, skin glands, and the entire nervous system (brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves). Neural crest cells are derived from the ectoderm but are a specific population.

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