The physiology of the cutaneous circulation in man.

Abstract

Summary The cutaneous circulation, particularly in the hands and feet, has been subjected to extensive investigation, using a variety of techniques. The results from these studies show that humoral and neural influences which operate elsewhere in the body control skin blood flow, the latter being mediated- through the sympathetic nervous system. Apart from its nutritive function, the circulation in skin is involved in the control of systemic blood pressure and, probably more important, plays an essential role in man's thermal homeostasis.