The dermal connective tissue of long quiescent leprosy patients. Part 2. Comparison of the volumes of collagen with those of elastic fibers

Abstract

We studied dermal connective tissue of leprosy patients(Pa) in inactive condition. The dermal thickness(D) and the volumes of collagene and elastic fibers were measured utilizing automated computerized image analyzer. The length of each elastic fibers(E) in lower legs were also measured. The E in upper dermis of forearms were observed microscopically. All these were compared with age-matched control(Co). We got the following results accordingly. There was a relative increase of E in Pa's limb skin in spite of greatly decreased dermal thickness and fibrous components. The influence of sun exposure could not be recognized in this result. Each elastic fibers of Pa were longer than that of Co. The increased E in upper dermis was evident in Co's forearms, but not in Pa's. From our results, it is conceivable that the Pa's E either outlast or are overproduced exceedingly the collagen fibers. The factors that may account for these results are remained to be clarified.