dermal papilla; papillary dermis

Introduction

Small interdigitations) of the dermis into the epidermis.

Dermal counterpart of rete ridges. Lies above the reticular dermis.

Function

• increases exchange of oxygen, nutrients, & waste products between the dermis & epidermis
• nourishes hair follicles
• increase surface area of contact between dermis & epidermis thus strengthens the junction betweem them

Pathology

• with age dermal papillae tend to flatten

Notes

• observed at the surface of the skin in hands & feet as epidermal or papillary ridges (fingerprints)

More general terms

• connective tissue

Additional terms

• rete ridge
• reticular dermis

Component of

• dermis; corium