ABSTRACT
The characteristics of the epithelial cells and the epithelium-connective tissue interface of the inferior surface of Macaca fuscata tongue mucosa were described employing a scanning electron microscope. The specimens were fixed in buffered modified Karnovsky solution and after that with or without treatment with NaOH, were postfixed in osmium tetroxide. They were dehydrated with acetone, critical point dried with Hitachi, HCP-2, covered with gold ions in a Polaron coating device and examined in a Hitachi S-800, scanning electron microscope. The inferior surface of Macaca fuscata tongue mucosa presents numerous microridges. These layers are constituted by polygonal epithelial cells, containing numerous microplicae. These are isolated or grouped, with circular, elongated or pointed shapes. In NaOH treated specimens we noted the existence of numerous connective tissue papillae of several forms and sizes. In the intermediate phase of corrosion, the deep layer of epithelial cells can be seen. Small foramina of ducts of salivary glands are found on the connective tissue surface, and they are surrounded by a circular disposition of collagen fibrils.