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'''Langerhans cell''' is a type of [[dendritic cell]] found in the [[epidermis]], the outermost layer of the [[skin]]. Named after the German physician [[Paul Langerhans]], who first described them in 1868, these cells play a crucial role in the [[immune system]], particularly in the body's response to external pathogens and in the process of [[inflammation]].

== Structure and Location ==

Langerhans cells are present in all layers of the epidermis and are most abundant in the [[stratum spinosum]]. They are also found in other tissues, such as the [[mucosa]], particularly in the [[oral cavity]], [[vagina]], and [[foreskin]]. Morphologically, they are characterized by their large size, oval shape, and the presence of Birbeck granules, rod-shaped structures visible under an [[electron microscope]].

== Function ==

Langerhans cells are part of the body's first line of defense against [[pathogen|pathogenic]] invasion. They are capable of [[phagocytosis]], a process by which they engulf and destroy pathogens. Once a pathogen is internalized, Langerhans cells process the pathogen's [[antigen]]s and present them on their surface to [[T cell|T cells]], a type of [[white blood cell]]. This antigen presentation triggers an immune response, leading to the destruction of the pathogen.

In addition to their role in immune response, Langerhans cells are involved in the process of inflammation. They release [[cytokine|cytokines]] and [[chemokine|chemokines]], signaling molecules that attract other immune cells to the site of infection or injury.

== Clinical Significance ==

Abnormalities in Langerhans cells can lead to several diseases. [[Langerhans cell histiocytosis]] is a rare disorder characterized by an overproduction of Langerhans cells, leading to tissue damage and organ dysfunction. On the other hand, a decrease in the number of Langerhans cells is associated with certain skin conditions, such as [[psoriasis]] and [[eczema]].

Langerhans cells also play a role in [[HIV]] infection. The virus can bind to these cells and be transported to the [[lymph node|lymph nodes]], where it replicates and spreads throughout the body.

== See Also ==

* [[Dendritic cell]]
* [[Immune system]]
* [[Inflammation]]
* [[Langerhans cell histiocytosis]]

== References ==

{{reflist}}

[[Category:Immune system]]
[[Category:Cell biology]]
[[Category:Histology]]
{{Medicine-stub}}

Langerhans cell - Revision history

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