Stratified squamous epithelium

From WikiMD's medical encyclopedia

Stratified Squamous Epithelium

Stratified squamous epithelium is a type of epithelial tissue characterized by multiple cell layers, with cells becoming increasingly flattened towards the surface and more cuboidal near the base.

Micrograph of stratified squamous epithelium.

Overview

This type of epithelium is designed for protection, found in areas subject to abrasion or friction. It plays a vital role in defending against microbial and physical assaults.

Structure

The stratified squamous epithelium is composed of several layers:

  • Basal layer: Consisting of cuboidal cells, responsible for continual cell production.
  • Intermediate layers: Cells start to flatten as they move upwards.
  • Surface layers: Composed of flattened, dead cells, often keratinized in areas like the skin.

Locations and Functions

  • Skin: Provides a barrier against pathogens, mechanical injury, and fluid loss.
  • Oral cavity, esophagus, and vagina: Non-keratinized form, providing a moist, protective layer.

Cell Differentiation and Renewal

Cells in the basal layer continually divide, pushing older cells towards the surface. This process leads to cell differentiation and ultimately the formation of a protective, flattened layer.

Diagram showing layers of the skin, including stratified squamous epithelium.

Pathology

Abnormalities in this epithelium can lead to various conditions, including skin cancer, Psoriasis, and Lichen Planus.

Research and Studies

Ongoing research aims to understand how this epithelium responds to damage and how it regenerates, which is crucial for developing treatments for skin and mucosal diseases.

See Also

External Links

References

WHO Rod.svg
This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
PubMed
Wikipedia


Stub icon
   This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!



Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:

NYC weight loss doctor appointments

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.

Linkedin_Shiny_Icon Facebook_Shiny_Icon YouTube_icon_(2011-2013) Google plus


Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Kondreddy Naveen