Abstract
The volar cutaneous circulation is arranged in a characteristic pattern which facilitates the countercurrent exchange of heat. This vascular pattern is described in detail, and those vascular relationships believed to regulate the time course flow of heat are discussed. It is believed that volume differences between dermal capillaries, veins and arterial vessels control the rate of transfer of heat from the blood to the outside air and that the large capacity of the dermal venous bed facilitates the conservation of heat. Certain quantitative estimates of the volumes of the components of the dermal circulation are presented.

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