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HistologyBody systemsIntegumentary systemPapillary layer of dermis
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HistologyBody systemsIntegumentary systemPapillary layer of dermis

Papillary layer of dermis

Author: Roberto Grujičić, MD • Reviewer: Dimitrios Mytilinaios, MD, PhD
Last reviewed: October 30, 2023
Reading time: 2 minutes

Recommended video: Skin [38:23]
General histology of the skin.
Papillary layer of dermis
Stratum papillare dermis
1/2
Synonyms: Papillary dermis, Corpus papillare

The dermis is one of three layers of skin, along with the epidermis and hypodermis. The dermis also has two distinct layers: papillary and reticular layers. 

The papillary layer is a more superficial and significantly thinner layer of the dermis. It is mainly composed of areolar connective tissue and various types of cells that include fibroblasts, scattered mast cells, macrophages, and other leukocytes. The substance of this tissue consists mainly of type I and III collagen fibers. 

The papillary layer forms irregular projections known as the dermal papillae. They interlace with the epidermal ridges and contain small vessels organized in subpapillary vascular plexus. The papillae are less abundant and smaller in thin skin that has minimal mechanical stress, when compared to in areas of thicker skin (i.e., palms and soles) where they tend to form curved parallel lines.

The main function of the papillary layer is to provide the superficial dermal and epidermal layers with sufficient nutrients.

Terminology English: Papillary layer of dermis
English synonyms: Papillary dermis
Latin: Stratum papillare dermis
Latin synonyms: Corpus papillare
Definition Superficial layer of dermis of skin
Function Nutrition and thermoregulation
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Learn all about the histology of the skin with the following study unit: 

Integumentary system Explore study unit

Sources

All content published on Kenhub is reviewed by medical and anatomy experts. The information we provide is grounded on academic literature and peer-reviewed research. Kenhub does not provide medical advice. You can learn more about our content creation and review standards by reading our content quality guidelines.

Mescher, A. L., Mescher, A. L., & Junqueira, L. C. U. (2016). Junqueira's basic histology: Text and atlas (Fourteenth edition.). New York: McGraw-Hill Education.
Agarwal S, Krishnamurthy K. Histology, Skin. [Updated 2022 May 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan. 

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