Authors
  Kennedy WR.  Wendelschafer-Crabb G.
Title
  The innervation of human epidermis [see comments].
Comments
  Comment in: J Neurol Sci 1995 Jun;130(2):228
Source
  Journal of the Neurological Sciences.  115(2):184-90, 1993 Apr.
Abstract
  Using immunohistochemical procedures numerous nerve fibers have been found
  in all cell layers of human epidermis. These nerves originate from nerve
  trunks in the dermis, enter the epidermis, then divide distally to
  eventually end in small enlargements, near the surface of the skin and in
  deeper areas. Some endings may be external to stratum granulosum cells.
  Epidermal nerves appear to have a three-dimensional territorial
  distribution in relationship to the skin's surface. The presence of
  epidermal nerve fibers was confirmed by electron microscope studies. The
  nerves are presumed to be sensory in nature. The existence of epidermal
  nerve fibers will necessitate changes in present theory of structure and
  function of peripheral sensation.