Scanning electron microscopy of dermal elastic fibres in transverse section

The fibrous networks of dermal elastic fibres have been studied in transverse section using a scanning electron microscope. In the uppermost dermis the elastic fibres have no free endings, but form a reticulate appearance by connecting with each other. In the mid-dermis the fibres run parallel to the epidermal surface, aligning in the same direction. In the lower dermis many of the fibres are organized into broad thin sheets with numerous branches.