The modified corneocyte surface area measurement as an index of epidermal barrier properties: inverse correlation with transepidermal water loss

Abstract

Background: Corneocyte surface area (CSA) is as established parameter for skin barrier function in humans. Measurement of canine CSA has been previously reported but has not been validated.

Hypothesis/objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity of CSA as a barrier function parameter in dogs.

Animals: Six clinically normal beagle dogs.

Methods: CSA was measured and compared with transepidermal water loss (TEWL) using sequential tape stripping of the stratum corneum as a model of acute barrier disruption. Then, CSA and TEWL were measured at four anatomical sites (groin, lower back, nasal bridge and pinna). The correlation between the two indices was also evaluated.

Results: From the results of sequential tape stripping, CSA values gradually decreased with increasing number of tape strippings. The CSA values were inversely correlated with the TEWL ones. The two indices at different sites were variable and were strongly correlated.

Conclusions and clinical importance: Canine CSA was demonstrated to be a useful parameter for the canine skin barrier function. The results from the anatomical sites imply that the cephalic sites (nasal bridge and pinna) were lower than others in skin barrier function.