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Definition

Mucosa is moist tissue that lines certain parts of the inside of your body. It is in your:

  • Nose
  • Mouth
  • Lungs
  • Urinary and digestive tracts

Glands in this tissue release a thick fluid called mucus.

Alternative Names

Mucous membrane

Gallery

Nasal mucosa
The mucosa, or mucous membrane, is a type of tissue that lines the nasal cavity. Mucous membranes are usually moist tissues that are bathed by secretions such as in the nose.

References

Merriam-Webster Dictionary. Mucosa. www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mucosa. Accessed February 1, 2021.

Last reviewed October 10, 2020 by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team..

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