<P> A stratified squamous epithelium consists of squamous ( flattened ) epithelial cells arranged in layers upon a basal membrane . Only one layer is in contact with the basement membrane ; the other layers adhere to one another to maintain structural integrity . Although this epithelium is referred to as squamous , many cells within the layers may not be flattened ; this is due to the convention of naming epithelia according to the cell type at the surface . In the deeper layers , the cells may be columnar or cuboidal . There are no intercellular spaces . This type of epithelium is well suited to areas in the body subject to constant abrasion , as the thickest layers can be sequentially sloughed off and replaced before the basement membrane is exposed . It forms the outermost layer of the skin and the inner lining of the mouth , esophagus and vagina . </P>
<P> A stratified squamous epithelium consists of squamous ( flattened ) epithelial cells arranged in layers upon a basal membrane . Only one layer is in contact with the basement membrane ; the other layers adhere to one another to maintain structural integrity . Although this epithelium is referred to as squamous , many cells within the layers may not be flattened ; this is due to the convention of naming epithelia according to the cell type at the surface . In the deeper layers , the cells may be columnar or cuboidal . There are no intercellular spaces . This type of epithelium is well suited to areas in the body subject to constant abrasion , as the thickest layers can be sequentially sloughed off and replaced before the basement membrane is exposed . It forms the outermost layer of the skin and the inner lining of the mouth , esophagus and vagina . </P>
where are stratified squamous cells found in the body
where are stratified squamous cells found in the body
outermost layer of the skin inner lining of the mouth , esophagus and vagina
outermost layer of the skin inner lining of the mouth , esophagus and vagina