Epidermal Langerhans' cells and their function in the skin immune system.

OBJECTIVE

This article reviews the role of the epidermal Langerhans' cell in contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis. Included in this review are sections on the historical, morphologic, immunohistochemical, and electron microscopic aspects of the Langerhans' cell. Differences between freshly isolated and cultured Langerhans' cells are reviewed in terms of cell surface markers and functional differences. The different IgE binding structures on the surface of Langerhans' cells are reviewed with discussion of their possible roles. The effects of different cytokines in the microenvironment are also commented upon. Other diseases where the Langerhans' cell is important such as histiocytosis X, HIV-1 infection, and skin graft rejection are briefly reviewed.

DATA SOURCES

English literature search (1974-1994), indexing terms: Langerhans' cells, atopic dermatitis, IgE.

STUDY SELECTION

The purpose of this paper is to review the most recent knowledge of Langerhans' cell function and relate this to the allergist/immunologist.

RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS: Epidermal Langerhans' cells play a central role in the immune response in exhibiting multiple cell-surface receptors and secreting a variety of cytokines that are important in the pathogenesis of contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, histiocytosis X, HIV-1 infection, and skin graft rejection.