PHYSIOLOGICAL FACTORS INVOLVED IN THE ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE OF THE SKIN

Abstract

The direct current resistance of the palms of the hands is shown to be independent of the condition of the capillaries, epithelial cells, and cornified stratum. It decreases when the sweat glands are hyperactive and increases when they are inactive. As a corollary, stimulation of the sympathetic nerve supply to the palms decreased resistance. Resistance of the dorsal hand surface, however, is not affected by nerve impulses, but is diminished by local mechanical, thermal, galvanic, or chemical stimuli.