Which statement correctly describes keratinizing stratified squamous epithelium?

• A. It has a surface layer of dead cells filled with keratin
• B. It lacks keratin on the surface
• C. It is composed of a single layer of cells
• D. It is not found in skin

Answer: (A)

Keratinization creates a tough, waterproof outer layer by producing dead, keratin-rich cells at the surface. In keratinizing stratified squamous epithelium, basal cells divide and move upward, flattening and accumulating keratin. As they reach the surface, they lose their nuclei and organelles and become cornified, dead cells filled with keratin, forming the stratum corneum of the epidermis. This multilayered arrangement protects underlying tissues and minimizes water loss, which is why skin has this keratinized outer layer. The other statements don’t fit because the tissue is not a single layer, it does contain surface keratin, and it is found in skin.