Alterations in the epidermal-dermal melanin axis and factor XIIIa melanophages in senile lentigo and ageing skin

Abstract

In SL an increased number of melanophages was found compared with unaffected skin from the same subject. These melanophages were identified as FXIIIa+ dermal dendrocytes. Possible functional consequences of the massive melanin uptake by dermal dendrocytes are discussed.