The distribution pattern of monocytes/macrophages and dendritic cells in normal human dermis / 中国免疫学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective:To observe the distribution,morphology and density of monocytes/macrophages and dendritic cells in the normal human dermis.Methods:Normal skin from 6 locations such as the face,trunk,proximal limbs,distal limbs,and palms and soles of 8 subjects were collected for the study.The horizontal and longitudinal sections of the skin were stained with an ABC immunoperoxidase procedure with anti-CD1a and anti-CD68 monoclonal antibodies.Results:In the superficial dermis CD68 positive monocytes/macrophages form a dense network with a density in a 6-micron section ranging from 361/mm~2 to 562/mm~2.These network of CD68 positive cells continued on to surround the blood vessels and skin appendages.Lower densities of CD68 positive dendritic cells were found in the deep(reticular) dermis,dispersed between collagen bundles.The CD68 positive cells were detected within the superficial dermis with variable densities distal limbs 562/mm~2,trunk 517/mm~2,face 509/mm~2,palms 507/mm~2,proximal limbs,472/mm~2,and soles 361/mm~2.Conclusion:There exists in the superficial dermis a relatively dense network of CD68 positive monocytes/macrophages.Such a distribution might indicate the clear polarity of the dermal monocytes/macrophages,with their direction of defense towards to the dermal-epidermal junction.