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An assessment of Langerhans cell quantification in tissue sections
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|October 1, 1984
Summary
Langerhans cell (LC) counts vary significantly by body site and between individuals. Comparing random skin sections is unreliable; use adjacent normal skin for controls in lesional skin studies.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunohistochemistry
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Langerhans cells (LCs) are crucial immune cells in the epidermis.
- Understanding LC distribution is vital for interpreting skin immune responses.
- Previous studies have not fully addressed regional variations and individual differences in LC numbers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate regional variations in Langerhans cell (LC) numbers within individuals.
- To assess the reproducibility of LC identification using OKT6 reactivity.
- To determine the validity of comparative enumeration of LCs in random skin sections.
Main Methods:
- Utilized stepped tissue sections from six volunteers.
- Employed OKT6 staining for LC identification.
- Employed an image analysis system to count LCs per millimeter of basement membrane.
Main Results:
- LC numbers on the trunk were significantly lower than on the limbs.
- Significant inter-individual variation in LC distribution was observed.
- Site-specific variations within individuals were unique and substantial.
Conclusions:
- Direct comparison of LCs in random skin sections is invalid due to high variability.
- Adjacent normal skin is the most appropriate control for counting LCs in lesional skin.
- Individual variability necessitates careful consideration in dermatological research involving LCs.