A biopsy from the esophagus shows a thick epithelium with multiple cell layers. The superficial cells are flat and retain their nuclei, but there is no visible keratin layer on the surface. Which type of epithelium is this?
- A Keratinized stratified squamous
- B Non-keratinized stratified squamous ✓
- C Transitional
- D Stratified cuboidal
Correct answer: B. Non-keratinized stratified squamous
Explanation
The esophagus is lined by non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium. The presence of nuclei in the superficial cells distinguishes it from keratinized stratified squamous epithelium found in skin, where superficial cells are dead and anucleate. Transitional epithelium shows dome-shaped umbrella cells, and stratified cuboidal is rare and found in large ducts.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.