Epithelium--connective tissue interface of oral mucous membranes.

The interface between the epithelium and connective tissue of mucous membranes and skin represents a tissue site that is affected by a host of diseases which alter its normal morphologic features. Many differences exist in the normal morphologic pattern of this interface between various anatomic sites. It is essential, therefore, to have a thorough understanding of these differences before a meaningful study and assessment of pathologic changes affecting the interface can be made. This study was undertaken to establish a set of morphologic standards which can be used as a basis for interpreting pathologic changes which occur at the epithelium--connective tissue interface of oral mucous membranes.