Dictionary of Allergies .. Bronchial mucosa

The conducting airway mucosa is the third compartment is the bronchial epithelium. The bronchial mucosa and the submucosa both contain a distinct pool of leukocytes (e.g. intraepithelial lymphocytes, IEL). This again is also accessible via bronchoscopy [1]. The epithelial surface of the bronchial mucosa shows pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelial cells with goblet cells. The subepithelial connnective tissue zone contains seromucous preribronchial glands. The mucus gland components are stained red. Below the epithelium are delicate strands of smooth muscle [2].

References

1. Tschernig T, Pabst R. What is the clinical relevance of different lung compartments? MC Pulm Med. 2009 Aug 11;9(1):39.

2. Morgenroth, K., Wettengel, R., Newhouse, M.: Bronchial Asthma, Boehringer Ingelheim, Int. GmbH 1987.