[Mast cell numbers in initial psoriasis vulgaris].

Using sections from 10 early and five fully developed psoriatic lesions, we counted the mast cells in the papillary body. The results were evaluated statistically and compared with the findings of other researchers. The number of mast cells in the papillary body beneath the basal membrane shows a significant difference between early psoriatic lesions, fully developed psoriasis, and normal skin. Even in the very early lesion, the number of mast cells per mm3 is increased compared with the normal skin, though it is less than in fully developed lesions.