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Review article: oesophageal mucosal resistance
1Tulane University Medical Center, and New Orleans Veterans Administration Hospital, Louisiana 70112, USA.
Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|May 7, 1998
Summary
The oesophageal mucosa acts as a protective barrier against stomach acid. Its structure and functions are crucial for defending the oesophagus from injury.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Histology
- Physiology
Background:
- The oesophagus is lined by stratified squamous epithelium.
- This lining provides a barrier against the external environment.
- This barrier function is clinically termed 'oesophageal mucosal resistance'.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the structure of the oesophageal mucosa.
- To explain the functions of the oesophageal mucosa in defence.
- To elucidate how the mucosa protects against gastric acid injury.
Main Methods:
- Histological examination of oesophageal tissue.
- Functional analysis of mucosal defence mechanisms.
- Review of existing literature on oesophageal physiology.
Main Results:
- The oesophageal epithelium is moist and partially keratinized.
- The stratified squamous epithelium forms a critical barrier.
- Specific mucosal structures and functions contribute to acid resistance.
Conclusions:
- The oesophageal mucosa's structure is integral to its barrier function.
- Understanding these mechanisms is key to addressing acid-related oesophageal injury.
- The oesophageal lining effectively defends against refluxed gastric acid.