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Related Experiment Videos

Anatomy of striae.

P Zheng, R M Lavker, A M Kligman

    The British Journal of Dermatology
    |February 1, 1985
    PubMed
    Summary

    Striae distensae, commonly known as stretch marks, are characterized by dense, well-developed elastic networks and horizontally packed collagen bundles, indicating they are scars, not ruptures.

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    Area of Science:

    • Dermatopathology
    • Connective tissue biology
    • Histology

    Background:

    • The microscopic pathology of striae distensae (stretch marks) is debated, with conflicting reports on changes in elastic fibers.
    • Existing literature presents contradictory accounts of the histopathology, particularly concerning the state and arrangement of elastic fibers within stretch marks.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To re-evaluate the histopathology of striae distensae, focusing on the structure of collagen and elastic fibers.
    • To clarify the microscopic changes in stretch marks using advanced imaging techniques.

    Main Methods:

    • Eight elliptical biopsies of striae distensae were obtained.
    • Six biopsies were analyzed using light microscopy with specific stains for elastin and collagen.
    • Two biopsies were examined via scanning electron microscopy (s.e.m.) after collagen removal to visualize the native elastic network.

    Main Results:

    • Light microscopy revealed sharply demarcated striae with fine, straight collagen bundles parallel to the skin surface and similarly oriented fine elastic fibers.
    • Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated an exceptionally dense and well-developed elastic network with numerous fine, randomly arranged, curled fibers.
    • Routine elastin stains were found to underestimate the abundance of elastic fibers, likely due to immature fiber composition.

    Conclusions:

    • Striae distensae exhibit a dense, well-developed elastic network and horizontally packed collagen bundles, supporting their classification as scars.
    • The findings refute the hypothesis that striae distensae result from stress-induced rupture of connective tissue.

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