Characteristics of the ultrastructure of the epithelium of the esophageal mucosa of essentially healthy subjects

: Ultrastructure of epithelial surface of the esophageal mucous membrane has been studied in nine practically healthy persons at the age of 32-46 years. The material has been obtained at prophylactic esophagoscopy. The surface of the epithelial layer cells is covered with microfolds 100-200 nm wide and 200-600 nm tall forming labyrinth-like patterns. According to the ultrastructural character of the apical surface of the cells, it is possible to judge about their functional state. The characteristics of the ultrastructure of the fracture surface of the epithelial layer is presented. The data obtained can serve as a base for estimation and differential diagnosis of pathological processes in the organ.