QUANTITATION AND REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION OF SWEAT GLANDS IN MAN 1

Abstract

A method is described for the detection of sweating and for the enumeration of functional sweat glands. 3% I soln. is painted over the test area and then a starch-containing paper is pressed over the area. Sweat gland activity is indicated by small, blue-black spots where each sweat pore empties sweat onto the surface. The use of the method in studying extent of the peripheral sympathectomies is illustrated. A comparison of the maximal sweating responses following exposure to high environmental temps. and to local action of mecholyl is made, and these responses in turn compared with those elicited by application of radiant heat and spontaneously occurring sweat gland activity. Maximum sweating consists of increased numbers of participating sweat glands together with increased output/gland, occurring in that order with a definite time interval separating the 2 levels of sweat output. Regional distribution of sweat glands is discussed as well as relatively large variations from individual to individual.