A medical student is examining histological sections of body cavities. The serous membranes lining the pleural and peritoneal cavities are composed of simple squamous epithelium. What is the specific term for this type of epithelium?
- A Mesothelium ✓
- B Endothelium
- C Transitional epithelium
- D Stratified squamous epithelium
Correct answer: A. Mesothelium
Explanation
Mesothelium lines body cavities like the pleura, peritoneum, and pericardium. Endothelium is the distractor because it shares the same simple squamous histology but lines blood and lymphatic vessels instead. Transitional epithelium lines the urinary tract, and stratified squamous epithelium lines surfaces like the skin and esophagus.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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