Question

54. The most common cell type found within the alveoli is:

Select one:

a. Simple squamous epithelium

b. Type II simple cuboidal cells

c. Type II surfactant secreting alveolar cells

d. Macrophages

e. Pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium

Answer 1

Question

The most common cell type found within the alveoli

b. Type II simple cuboidal cells

There are below mentioned properties of Type II simple cuboidal cells:

Type II cells are cuboidal and much smaller than type I cells.

These cells are the most numerous cells in the alveoli, yet do not cover as much surface area as the squamous type I cells.

Type II cells in the alveolar wall contain secretory organelles known as lamellar bodies that fuse with the cell membranes and secrete pulmonary surfactant.

Type II cells start to develop at about 26 weeks of gestation, secreting small amounts of surfactant.