Abstract
IntroductionThe fetal skin acts on the development and activation of the immune response via immune–neuroendocrine communication coordinated by corticotropin-releasing hormone. ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the morphological and inflammatory changes in the skin due to acute stress and chronic stress, associated with perinatal asphyxia, ascending infection and congenital malformation. MethodsWe measured dermal and epidermal thickness, the diameter of keratinocytes, and the percentage of collagen and elastic fibers. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate both Langerhans cell and mast cell density, and corticotropin-releasing hormone expression in the epidermis, sebaceous gland, sebaceous duct, sudoriparous gland and in the hair follicle. ResultsThe epidermis was thinner in the cases with perinatal asphyxia, ascending infection and chronic stress. The diameter of keratinocytes was smaller in ascending infection and chronic stress. Mast cell density showed an indirect correlation with gestational age. Corticotropin-releasing hormone expression was significantly higher in ascending infection and chronic stress. ConclusionsChronic stress is associated with immunological and morphological changes in the skin of fetuses with perinatal asphyxia and ascending infection. Thus, corticotropin-releasing hormone seems to play a vital role in the differentiation and activation of innate and adaptive immune cells of the skin of fetuses.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
