Fig 8.

Transmission electron microscopic examination of the structure of the intima of control saphenous (a) and varicose veins (b). An endothelial cell (E) is detached from the intimal layer and increased thickness of collagen (C) is seen in this area. The arrow shows the area of missing endothelial cells. Endothelial cells (E) are detected in some parts of the intimal layer whereas in other parts they are completely missing (arrow). The elastic fibres (EF) and collagen (C) contribute to the thickening of this area. It shows more collagen accumulation in the subendothelial layer region which lost endothelial cells. The variability of endothelial cell membrane was identified tin some regions of missing endothelial cells (red arroweds). L: lumen of the vein; S: smooth muscle cell in the intimal layer; SMC: smooth muscle cell (uranyl acetate-lead citrate: ×2500