Interpretation of structural patterns appearing on corrosion casts of small blood and initial lymphatic vessels.

Structures imprinted on the corrosion casts of blood and lymphatic microvessels are examined by correlative scanning electron microscopy of corroded casts and fixed tissue. Replicas of the endothelial nuclear portions and cell boundaries and the plastic bands surrounding the casts of terminal blood vessels are demonstrated. In small lymphatics the replication of valve structures, interendothelial open junctions and direct prelymphatic connections is shown. The different imprint patterns are examined in regard to their morphological significance and under methodical aspects.