Esophageal gland

Esophageal gland is a type of exocrine gland found in the esophagus, a part of the digestive system. These glands are responsible for the production and secretion of mucus, which aids in the process of swallowing and protects the esophageal lining from the abrasive effects of the food bolus and stomach acid.

Anatomy

The esophageal glands are located in the submucosa layer of the esophagus. They are tubuloalveolar in structure, meaning they have both tubular and alveolar (sac-like) components. The glands are lined with simple columnar epithelium, a type of epithelial tissue.

Function

The primary function of the esophageal glands is to produce and secrete mucus. This mucus serves several important functions in the digestive process. It lubricates the esophagus, facilitating the passage of food and drink from the mouth to the stomach. The mucus also forms a protective barrier that shields the esophageal tissue from damage by the abrasive food bolus and stomach acid.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the esophageal glands can lead to a variety of medical conditions. For example, Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which the cells of the esophageal glands undergo metaplasia, or abnormal change in type, often as a result of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This can increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer.

Achalasia is another condition that can be associated with the esophageal glands. This is a disorder of the esophagus where the smooth muscle layer and the lower esophageal sphincter do not function properly, leading to difficulty swallowing and other symptoms. The exact cause of achalasia is unknown, but it may be related to damage or loss of the nerves in the esophagus that control the esophageal glands and other structures.

See also

• Digestive system
• Exocrine gland
• Mucus
• Swallowing
• Barrett's esophagus
• Achalasia