Papillary Dermis Research Paper

1.3.2 Papillary dermis
The papillary dermis is the smaller of the two layers in the dermis, and is located between the epidermis and the reticular dermis. The papillary dermis is approximately 300-400 µm deep, depending on the age and anatomical location.22 The upper outermost layer of the papillary dermis is arranged into protruding structures called the dermal papillae. The dermal papillae contains microvascular and neural components to support the epidermis. The dermal papillae increase the surface area that the epidermis and dermal papillae interact for a greater exchange between soluble molecules. The papillary region consists of loose connective tissue which is characterized by a thin, poorly organized bundles of collagen fiber, which consist primarily of type I and type III collagen.12 Collagen fibers that are located in the papillary dermis contain a greater amount of collagen type III compared to the reticular dermis. Between the papillary and reticular dermis there is a mechanical separation (dermatoming) that defines a border between the two layers. This border allows for different cultures of cells for each layer. The fibroblasts that are located in the papillary dermis divide at …show more content…
In contrast to the papillary dermis, the reticular dermis consists of thick and well-organized fiber bundles that are branched out.12 These fibers are composed mostly of collagen type I and continuous with collagenous fibers, they form a tightly woven fabric that joins connective tissue to adjacent tissues.24 These fiber give the skin its strong and flexible characteristics.25 Within the reticular dermis are hair roots, sebaceous glands, sweat glands, sensory receptors, nails and blood vessels located. In the reticular dermis there are fibroblasts present, but compared to the papillary dermis these cells are present in far lower numbers compared to the papillary