The histological type of epithelium lining the trachea is pseudostratified columnar ciliated epithelium. This type is called respiratory epithelium or 'epithelium of Reissner' in which location?
- A Bronchioles, where it transitions to simple cuboidal
- B Nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses exclusively
- C Eustachian tube and middle ear
- D Cochlear duct (scala media) forming its vestibular wall ✓
Explanation
Reissner's membrane (vestibular membrane of the cochlea) forms the roof of the scala media (cochlear duct) and is lined by a very thin pseudostratified (or simple) epithelium that helps maintain the ionic composition of endolymph by active transport. In the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, the lining is also pseudostratified columnar ciliated epithelium. In the trachea and main bronchi, respiratory epithelium (pseudostratified columnar ciliated with goblet cells) is the standard lining. Bronchioles transition to simple columnar then simple cuboidal (Clara cells) as they narrow. Eustachian tube is also lined by respiratory epithelium.
Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.
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