Squamous cells are flat and sheet-like in appearance. They are one of the three primary shapes of epithelial cells, the others being cuboidal and columnar.
Squamous epithelium is a type of tissue that is made up of squamous cells. This tissue is found in many parts of the body, including:
- The outer layer of skin (epidermis)
- The lining of blood vessels (endothelium)
- The lining of air sacs in the lungs (alveoli)
- The lining of the mouth, esophagus, and vagina
Simple squamous epithelium is a single layer of flattened cells with irregular boundaries. Stratified squamous epithelium is composed of multiple layers of squamous cells. The cells in the outermost layer are flattened, while the cells in the deeper layers are more cuboidal or columnar.
The shape of squamous cells allows them to perform specific functions. For example, the flat shape of squamous cells in the alveoli of the lungs allows for efficient gas exchange. The flattened shape of squamous cells in the epidermis helps to protect the body from injury and infection.
