Simple Squamous Epithelium

Features of simple squamous

• Most delicate epithelium

• Where there is filtration (kidney); diffusion (lung); secretion where slippery surface needed (e.g. outer layer of serous membranes);

Appearance of simple squamous

• Thin flat and somewhat irregular like jigsaw

• Cells are “like fried eggs” or paving stones

Specialised Subtypes of simple squamous

• Mesothelium lines pericardial, pleural, peritoneal cavities

• Endothelium lines inside of heart and the blood and lymphatic vessels

Simple Squamous Epithelium Locations

• kidneys

• lines cardiovasular systems

• lines lymphatic systems

• inside eye

• alveoli of lungs

• visceral cavity linings

• inside blood vessels

• inside heart

• small intestines

Simple Squamous Epithelium (filtration, diffusion, secretion)

A serous membrane (serosa) lining the body cavity and viscera (mesothelium + connective tissue

Mesothelium

a layer of squamous epithelial cells covering the serous membranes (peritoneum, pericardium, pleura) of the adult.