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 non-infected adults, 10 infected adults, 4 non-infected neonates, and 2 infected neonates. No histological differences were found based on sex, age, or WHV infection status. The skin thickness averaged 2394 microns, with the thickest areas on the dorsal body. 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. Hair follicles were mostly compound, and sebaceous glands were associated with hair follicles. No apocrine sweat glands were found, but eccrine sweat glands were abundant in the footpads.