- Langerhans Cells (Dendritic cells of the skin) are located in the Epidermis.
- They are a modified macrophages (histiocytes) and originate in the Bone Marrow.
- They have a stellar shape with long projections (they can be seen by a histological stain called S100).
- They play an immune function and are Antigen Presenting Cells (APC):
- They present foreign bodies (antigens) to lymphocytes.
- They lose this function but interact with “naive lymphocytes” in lymph nodes.
- They play a fundamental role in mounting immune and allergic reactions.
- Although normally only present in the skin they can localize in a cancerous named Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis.
- Under electronic microscopy, tennis racket shaped structures can be found, they are called Birbeck granules and their function is unclear.
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The Langerhans Cell (Dendritic Cell)
About Dr Christophe HSU
Dr HSU is an internationally seasoned dermatologist who has lived as an expatriate and who therefore understands the difficulty in finding a like-minded healthcare provider in a sometimes intimidating environment. [(dermatologue) in French]
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+41 22 738 18 48
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