pubmed-article:1792187 | pubmed:abstractText | The connective matrix participates directly in early pathological events observed in the cutaneous lesion of leishmaniasis, due to Leishmania braziliensis guyanensis. A sample of 19 skin biopsies was examined by light and electron microscopy, in order to identify the matrix components (collagen isotypes I to IV, elastin and membrane associated proteins) of the dermal infiltrate, and the pattern of organization of the reparative connective matrix. An extensive remodelling process of apparently parasite-independent nature involves different fibroblast sub-populations. The original organization of this immune-mediated lesion offers a rare opportunity to study in situ the local inflammatory mediators inducing the activation of fibroblasts and macrophages. | lld:pubmed |