Term: Squamous Cell
Definition: Squamous cells are flat, thin cells that make up the outermost layer of the skin and line various organs, including the respiratory and digestive tracts.
Phonetic Pronunciation: (SKWAY-muhs sel)
Etymological Origin: The term "squamous" is derived from the Latin word squamosus, meaning "scaly" or "covered with scales," reflecting the flat, scale-like appearance of these cells under a microscope.
Significance in Asbestos Context: Squamous cells are significant in the context of asbestos exposure because squamous cell carcinoma, a type of cancer that originates in these cells, can develop in the lungs or other organs after prolonged asbestos exposure. This type of cancer is often associated with occupational exposure to asbestos and is a key focus in both medical research and asbestos-related litigation. Squamous cell carcinoma of the lung is one of the histological types of lung cancer linked to asbestos exposure, particularly in individuals who also smoke.
Synonyms or Related Terms: Flat cells, epithelial cells, squamous epithelium.
Example Sentence: "The biopsy revealed squamous cell carcinoma in the patient's lung, which was attributed to years of asbestos exposure in the workplace."
Common Misconceptions:
