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Definition

The term "epithelium" refers to layers of cells that line hollow organs and glands. It is also those cells that make up the outer surface of the body.

Alternative Names

Epithelial cells

Information

Epithelial cells help to protect or enclose organs. Most produce mucus or other secretions.

Certain types of epithelial cells have tiny hairs called cilia, which help remove foreign substances.

Epithelial cells are arranged in single, or multiple layers, depending on the organ and location.

Gallery

Epithelial cells
Epithelial cells help to protect or enclose organs; some produce mucus or other secretions. Certain types of epithelial cells have tiny hairs called cilia, which help remove foreign substances.

References

Dinulos JGH. Principles of diagnosis and anatomy. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology: A Color Guide in Diagnosis and Therapy. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 1.

Merriam-Webster Dictionary. Epithelium. www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/epithelium. Accessed January 17, 2023.

Last reviewed October 9, 2024 by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team..

Related specialties

Clinical trials: Epithelium

UF Health research scientists make medicine better every day. They discover new ways to help people by running clinical trials. When you join a clinical trial, you can get advanced medical care. Sometimes years before it's available everywhere. You can also help make medicine better for everyone else. If you'd like to learn more about clinical trials, visit our clinical trials page. Or click one of the links below:

Gut Organoid Study

The study compared basic properties of gut epithelia of hypertensive and normotensive reference subjects. The study determined if there are fundamental differences in the gut epithelium in hypertension compared to normotension. Specifically, this…

Investigator
Carl J Pepine
Status
Accepting Candidates
Ages
18 Years - 80 Years
Sexes
All