squamous cells

Keratinizing

Keratinizing refers to a process in which squamous cells produce and fill up with a protein called keratin. Keratin is a strong, protective substance that helps tissues resist damage and dehydration. As squamous cells become keratinizing, they grow tougher and thicker and lose their ability to function as living cells. Instead, they form a protective …
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Squamous dysplasia

Squamous dysplasia is a precancerous condition, which means the affected cells are not cancerous but have the potential to develop into cancer over time if left untreated. The term describes changes in squamous cells, which are flat cells that cover the surface of certain tissues in the body. Under the microscope, these cells look abnormal, and …
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Squamous metaplasia

Squamous metaplasia is a benign (non-cancerous) change that occurs when the normal cells in a tissue or organ are replaced by specialized cells known as squamous cells. This type of change happens as an adaptive response when tissues are repeatedly irritated or inflamed. Squamous metaplasia often occurs in the respiratory tract, urinary tract (especially the …
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Squamous dysplasia

What is squamous dysplasia? Squamous dysplasia is a precancerous change involving an area of the body covered by squamous cells. If left untreated, squamous dysplasia can turn into a type of cancer called squamous cell carcinoma over time. What causes squamous dysplasia? The cause of squamous dysplasia depends on where in the body the disease …
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Spongiosis

Spongiosis is a term pathologists use to describe a specific change seen in the outer layer of your skin or the lining of your mouth. Normally, these areas are covered by specialized cells called squamous cells, which stick tightly together to form a protective barrier. Spongiosis occurs when these cells become separated or pushed apart …
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Spongiotic

Pathologists use the term spongiotic to describe tissue (usually skin) where fluid has built up between specialized cells called squamous cells, causing them to appear separated or pushed apart. Normally, squamous cells stick tightly together, forming a strong barrier on your skin or the lining of your mouth. When fluid separates these cells, the affected area looks …
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Squamous cells

Squamous cells are flat, thin cells that form the outermost layer of your skin and line the surfaces of various organs inside your body. Their flattened, scale-like shape provides an effective protective barrier for the tissues underneath. Where are squamous cells normally found? Squamous cells cover many body surfaces, both externally and internally. They make …
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