[Epithelial surface of trachea in adult male albino rats (author's transl)].

The epithelial surface of trachea in adult male albino rats is studied by reflection scanning electron microscopy (REM). Surface morphology of the tracheal epithelium shows extensive individual and regional variability. Identical surface morphology may result by different causal factors. Regional morphology is presented by a mapping of the epithelial surface. Special attention is given to the structure of the cilia. Furthermore the morphology and distribution of possible receptor cell terminals is shown. The validity of reflection scanning electron microscopic studies for identifying the patho-histogenetic action of air pollutants is discussed.