Dermal papillae are small finger-like projections of the papillary dermis that interlock with downward ridges of the epidermis. This wavy junction anchors the two layers together and increases the surface for nourishment.
| Location | At the dermal-epidermal junction, most prominent in thick skin of the palms and soles |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Cutaneous nerves (sensory and sympathetic) |
| Blood Supply | Cutaneous branches of regional arteries (dermal and subpapillary plexuses) |
| Venous drainage |
|
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Strengthen the attachment between epidermis and dermis, supply the epidermis, and in the hands and feet create the fingerprint ridges.
The interlocking flattens with age, which is one reason older skin tears and blisters more easily. Elongated papillae with dilated capillaries are typical of psoriasis and explain pinpoint bleeding when scales are removed.
Easy separation of fragile skin layers because the papillae flatten with age.
Chronic inflammatory disease with elongated dermal papillae and thick scaly plaques.
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