Page 576 - Atlas of Histology with Functional Correlations

Digestive System Part II: Esophagus and

Stomach

GENERAL PLAN OF DIGESTIVE

SYSTEM: AN OVERVIEW

Hollow tube extending from the oral cavity to rectum

Wall exhibits basic organization of the entire tube
Morphology of the wall and epithelium varies due to different functions

Mucosa

Is the innermost layer of digestive tract and consists of the epithelium and
glands

Loose connective tissue around glands is the lamina propria
Smooth muscle layer muscularis mucosae forms the outer layer of mucosae
Muscularis mucosae has an inner circular and an outer longitudinal smooth
muscle layer

Submucosa

Located inferior to mucosa

Consists of dense irregular connective tissue with blood vessels, nerves, and
lymphatics
Contains submucosal nerve plexus that controls muscularis mucosae

Muscularis Externa

Thick, smooth muscle layer inferior to or below submucosa

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