![]() | Only 14 pages are availabe for public view |
Abstract Aim of the work To compare the post-transfer pigmentary changes of both full thickness and split-thickness skin auto-grafts. Clinical and histological analysis was used to detect the pigmentary changes and possibility of the mechanisms of these changes. Conclusion Histo-pathological studies showed decrease in number and size of melanocytes in skin graft. Melanin granules in keratinocytes increased progressively. These changes began at third month until the end of first year. At the end of the first year, the melanocytes become round, with very short processor or without dendrites. Epidermis appeared filled with melanin granules. Patients subjected to full-thickness skin auto-grafts showed grade I match, this occurred when the donor was nearer to recipient and above the clavicle. Grade II matching and then excellent match over a period of months from 3rd month to 11th month after transplantation occurred when grafts were taken from an area, which below the clavicle and sun protected pre-and post transfer photographs (objective assessment) showed the same finding. Histo-pathological studies of melanocytes and melanin were the same as the surrounding skin. |