a-short-review-of-histology

Question:

Micrograph e shows a ciliated epithelium
This was taken from the trachea where the role of the cilia is to remove mucus from the upper respiratory tract
In some individuals, the cilia are non-functional/weakly functional due to a genetically based disorder
In heavy smokers, the cilia may become damaged and ineffective

Answer:

Inability/reduced ability to remove mucus from respiratory tract
Mucus in the respiratory tract plays an important part in the humidifying of the air drawn into the lungs and the trapping of dirt and other particles, including bacteria which are then removed from the respiratory tract by the action of cilia
Mucus is continuously produced and if it cannot be removed by ciliary action then it will accumulate as static pools
As mucus provides a medium in which bacteria can multiply respiratory infections can be established - pneumonia