Dermal papillae

Nipple skin

Dermal papillae or dermal papillae are small cone-shaped projections located along the edges of the stratum corneum of the epidermis of the skin (that is, on the surface of the skin). The papillae serve for touch, determination of direction and transmission of pain. Their function is similar to that of the nipples of the mammary glands, which are classified as nipples of the skin. However, the main difference between the two is that the nipples of the mammary gland produce milk, while the papillae of the skin are only involved in skin sensitivity.

On human skin there are up to 200 dermal papillae in children and up to 40-50 in adults. Some of them are very small and invisible to the naked eye. Each papilla consists of a rod attached to a base that lies under the skin, and the apex is covered with many sensory nerve endings. The shaft of the papilla is formed by depressions and veins. It is divided by areas of deep division called the distal end, which is narrower than the proximal end. Along the axis, the rod is divided into two sections by a narrow plate. The upper section contains veins that approach the top of the papilla, and the lower section serves to establish communication with the skeletal muscles. Several small vessels and nerves cross the base of the papilla from the body of the finger.

There are different types of skin papillae: epidermal (or cutaneous), palpebral (subeyelid), dermatoglyphic (Friedrich's bodies)

Dermal papillae

Dermal papillae are small projections on the skin that serve to protect against mechanical damage and to increase skin sensitivity. The dermis is the layer of skin that lies below the epidermis and is the main part of our body. The dermal papillae help us sense touch, temperature, pressure and pain. They also provide a connection between the epidermis and dermis.

There are several types of papillae depending on their location and function. For example, tuberous papillae are located in the area of ​​the face, neck and chest, and grooved papillae are located in the area of ​​the arms, legs and back. Each type of papilla has its own characteristics and performs a specific function.

- Tuberous papillae are small tubercles that are found in the area of ​​the ears, nose, lips and forehead. They help sense pressure and determine the shape of objects. In addition, they also play an important role in determining a person's emotional state, such as anger or joy. - The striate papillae are long lines on the fingers and palms. They play a role in touch and recognition of the surface of a material. These lines are especially pronounced in those who constantly work with their hands, which makes them more sensitive to heat, cold and other surfaces. - Granular papillae are found on the tip of the tongue and lips. They are involved in the sensation of taste and also help determine the composition of the product before consuming it.

Importance of papillae for health

The dermal papillae perform several important functions to maintain healthy skin and the body as a whole. They protect against damage caused by mechanical stress such as friction, scratching or puncture. They also help determine the temperature and pressure of the environment, which is an important factor for