(090) Immunohistochemical Staining of Elastin in the Vestibule

Abstract Introduction The vestibule is an external genital structure lying 90° to the vaginal canal opening. During thrusting movements associated with penetrative sexual activity, undergoes significant stretching during both invagination and evagination. also extreme childbirth. rete pegs in non-keratinized squamous epithelium facilitate ability of mechanically stretch. More importantly, however, vestibular lamina propria, nerves, blood vessels, glands, needs contain a high density extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins capabilities. In particular, ECM protein elastin endows skin structures stretch, recoil, have elasticity. Elastin has previously been shown influence mechanical properties tendons. Objective objective this study was examine reproductive age patients as there are currently limited data. Methods A total 7 normal sex steroid hormone values complaints entrance dyspareunia were diagnosed neuroproliferative vestibulodynia subsequently underwent complete vestibulectomy. Tissue blocks created from specimen, 5 μm sections studied immunohistochemical staining primary antibody. Sections then counterstained Gill-modified hematoxylin. Results all very underneath throughout entire propria (Fig 1). There gradient highest immediately deep basement membrane epithelium. fibers arranged orientations: coronal (frontal), sagittal (longitudinal), transverse (axial) planes. Conclusions multi-planar orientation suggestive capability eugonadal tissues. seen below epithelium, which may provide tissue integrity shear resilience epithelial layer. insufficiency states such menopause or use combined hormonal contraceptives, individuals develop loss introital elasticity fissures due deficiency elastin. research needed on elastic fiber production, organization, integration other cutaneous proteins, how they be affected by hormones. Disclosure Any authors act consultant, employee shareholder industry for: Endoceutics, Inc.