In microscopic hair analysis, which feature describes the distribution of pigment within the cortex?

In microscopic hair analysis, which feature describes the distribution of pigment within the cortex?

• A. Cortex pigment
• B. Medullary index
• C. Cuticle scale pattern
• D. Root bulb presence

Answer: (A)

In microscopic hair analysis, the distribution of pigment within the cortex is captured by cortex pigment. This term specifically describes how pigment granules are arranged inside the cortex—whether they’re evenly dispersed, clumped, or show distinctive patterns. It’s distinct from the medullary index, which relates to the size of the medulla; from the cuticle scale pattern, which examines the outer scales; and from root bulb presence, which notes the root end. Because cortex pigment directly describes how pigment is distributed inside the cortex, it is the most appropriate descriptor for this feature.

In microscopic hair analysis, the distribution of pigment within the cortex is captured by cortex pigment. This term specifically describes how pigment granules are arranged inside the cortex—whether they’re evenly dispersed, clumped, or show distinctive patterns. It’s distinct from the medullary index, which relates to the size of the medulla; from the cuticle scale pattern, which examines the outer scales; and from root bulb presence, which notes the root end. Because cortex pigment directly describes how pigment is distributed inside the cortex, it is the most appropriate descriptor for this feature.