Epithelium: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

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Epithelium

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Epithelial cells

The term "epithelium" refers to cells that line hollow organs and glands and those that make up the outer surface of the body. 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, for example, from the respiratory tract.

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

Alternative Names

Epithelial cells

Update Date: 10/20/2008

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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