Microscopic anatomy of the skin of the woodchuck (Marmota monax): comparison of woodchuck hepatitis virus-infected and non-infected animals.

The study examined the microscopic anatomy of the skin in 33 woodchucks, comparing those infected with woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) to non-infected ones. It included 17 healthy adults, 10 infected adults, 4 noninfected neonates, and 2 infected neonates. No histologic differences were found based on sex, age, or WHV infection status. The average skin thickness was 2394 microns, with the thickest skin on dorsal areas. The epidermis had 4 layers, with a stratum lucidum only in footpads. The dermis showed no clear distinction between superficial and deep layers, but elastic fibers were more prominent superficially. Compound hair follicles were more common, and arrectores pilorum muscles were largest dorsally. Sebaceous glands were associated with hair follicles, and eccrine sweat glands were abundant in footpads, but no apocrine sweat glands were found.