Histology of Oesophagus

• non-keratinised stratified squamous epithelium
• submucosa forms a number of longitudinal folds which flatten as a bolus of food passes
• in upper third muscularis externa is striated muscle
  • innervated by vagus (CN X)
• in midddle third muscularis externa is mix of striated and smooth muscle
• in lower third muscularis externa is smooth muscle
  • postganglionic neurons are in wall of oesophagus
• surrounded by adventitia in thorax, short length in abdomen covered in serosa
• oesophageal glands
  • tubuloalveolar,
  • concentrated in upper half,
  • produce slightly acid mucus
  • lubricates passage of food
• oeophageal cardiac glands
  • terminal part of oesophagus
  • neutral mucus protects against acid reflux