Definition: The tissue that lines the inside of the large and small intestine and other hollow digestive organs and glands. The cells in the epithelium are tightly packed together in a thin layer.
Pronunciation: ep-`i-the-li-um
Epithelium
By Amber J. Tresca, About.com
Updated January 09, 2008
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
Epithelial cells help to protect or enclose organs; some produce mucus or other secretions. Certain types of epithelial cells have tiny hairs called cilia, which help remove foreign substances.
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