THE INSENSIBLE WATER LOSS THROUGH THE SKIN

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Abstract
Phosphorus pentoxid in 2 sets of U-tubes was used, 1 collecting water vapor from a given area of skin (evidently from human subjects, no. not stated), while the other collected water vapor present in the room air. Evidence of insensible perspiration was always obtained, and sweat secretion was noted in only 5 cases in each of which the elimination rose from 18-72% above the av. and the AgNO3 test showed a positive reaction, indicating that a totally different mechanism had come into play. Probably, therefore, the 2 processes are quite independent. This work has tended to show that water exists in the skin as bound water or water of hydration according to the theories of Frieboes and Rothman, and not as free water, as required by the theory of Hancock, White-house and Haldane. The evidence also suggests that the process is a vital one under definite physiologic control when the effect of humidity on the entire body is considered. Then the skin acts as a vital structure possessing the inherent capacity of increasing its water output in spite of a gradually increasing humidity of the surrounding air.

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