glomus body

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Introduction

An anatomical & functional unit composed of specialized smooth muscle (glomus cells) that surround thin-walled endothelial spaces. The glomus body functions as an A-V shunt linking arterioles & venules. Glomus bodies are present on the pads & nail beds of the fingers & toes, & on the volar aspect of hands & feet, in the skin of the ears & in the center of the face.

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References

  1. Color Atlas and Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology, Common and Serious Diseases, 3rd ed, Fitzpatrick et al, McGraw Hill, NY, 1997, pg 161