Some histological aspects of the palmar digital pads in the vervet monkey.

The structural organisation of the digital touch pads has been investigated in the vervet monkey (Cercopithecus pygerythrus) by light microscopy. It has been demonstrated that the subcutaneous tissue of the terminal digital pad consists of a highly organised septal framework containing large amounts of elastic fibres, with adipose tissue sweat gland compartments lying between the connective tissue septa. It is suggested that the presence of elastic fibres in the septal framework of the terminal digital pad is an important factor in accomplishing an even more supple response to prehensile and tactile activities of the hand.