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Scanning electron microscopy of dermatofibroma.
Felipe Simões Lopes Quintana1,2, Hiram Larangeira de Almeida1,3, Caroline Pires Ruas4
1Post-Graduation Program in Health and Behavior, Universidade Católica de Pelotas, Pelotas (RS), Brazil.
Anais Brasileiros De Dermatologia
|August 1, 2019
Summary
Scanning electron microscopy revealed distinct collagen structures in dermatofibroma. This skin condition shows denser, mesh-like collagen within lesions compared to surrounding tissue.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pathology
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Dermatofibroma is a common benign skin tumor.
- It originates from spindle cell proliferation within the dermis.
- Understanding its microstructural characteristics is crucial for diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural morphology of collagen fibers in dermatofibroma.
- To compare collagen organization in lesional versus perilesional skin areas.
- To characterize the relationship between spindle cells and collagen matrix.
Main Methods:
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed.
- Two histologically confirmed dermatofibroma lesions were analyzed.
- Collagen structures in both lesional and perilesional dermal areas were examined at various magnifications.
Main Results:
- Perilesional areas exhibited preserved, organized collagen bundles.
- Lesional areas displayed denser collagen with a lack of distinct bundle formation.
- High-resolution SEM revealed a mesh-like collagen appearance, resembling stretched cotton tufts, surrounding spindle cells.
Conclusions:
- Dermatofibroma formation is associated with significant alterations in dermal collagen organization.
- The unique mesh-like collagen structure may be a characteristic feature of this skin neoplasm.
- SEM provides valuable insights into the microenvironment of dermatofibroma.
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