Visualization of the Langerhans cells in the human vaginal epithelium by the L-dopa histofluorescence method

In this study we used the technique of L-DOPA histofluorescence for visualizing Langerhans cells in the human vaginal epithelium. Biopsy specimens were incubated with L-DOPA and sectioned by cryostat. The sections were exposed to formaldehyde vapour; during this passage, chemical conversion of L-DOPA into a strongly fluorescent compound occurred. Langerhans cells were clearly visualized in the vaginal epithelium; cell bodies and dendritic processes fluoresced sharply. The method is rapid and specific: it represents an useful tool for demonstrating Langerhans cells in the stratified squamous epithelium of vagina.