Squamous cells

Squamous cells are a type of epithelial cell that are flat and scale-like in appearance. They are found in many parts of the body, including the skin, the mouth, the esophagus, and the cervix. Squamous cells are involved in many functions, including providing a barrier against environmental damage, secreting fluids, and aiding in absorption.

Structure

Squamous cells are thin and flat, with a shape that is similar to a fish scale. They have a large, round nucleus in the center of the cell. The cells are tightly packed together, forming a protective layer.

Function

The primary function of squamous cells is to provide a protective barrier. In the skin, this barrier helps to prevent damage from environmental factors such as UV radiation and physical injury. In the mouth and esophagus, squamous cells help to protect against damage from food and drink.

Squamous cells also have a role in secretion and absorption. In the skin, they help to regulate the amount of water that is lost from the body. In the lungs, squamous cells are involved in the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in squamous cells can lead to a number of medical conditions. For example, squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that arises from squamous cells. This can occur in any area of the body where squamous cells are found, but is most common in the skin, mouth, and lungs.

Squamous cell dysplasia is a condition in which squamous cells become abnormal but are not cancerous. This can occur in many areas of the body, including the cervix, where it is often detected during a Pap smear.

See also

• Epithelium
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell dysplasia

Squamous cells Resources
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