Home > C. Tissular pathology > mucosa

mucosa

Monday 8 August 2016

Mucous membrane. Adj. mucosal

Definition: A mucous membrane or mucosa is a membrane that lines various cavities in the body and covers the surface of internal organs. It consists of one or more layers of epithelial cells overlying a layer of loose connective tissue.

It is mostly of endodermal origin, but can be of ectodermal origin.

Iis continuous with the skin at various body openings such as the eyes, ears, inside the nose, inside the mouth, lip, the urethral opening and the anus.

Some mucous membranes secrete mucus, a thick protective fluid. The function of the membrane is to stop pathogens and dirt from entering the body and to prevent bodily tissues from becoming dehydrated.

Types

squamous mucosa