The Squamous Layer (Stratum Spinosum of the Epidermis)
- The Squamous Layer (Stratum Spinosum) is the layer of epidermis between the basal layer and the granular layer.
- They are polygonal in shape.
- The cells are differentiating so they are NOT able to divide and become progressively flatter the more superficial they get.
- Squamous Cells are linked together by desmosomes and are seen as intercellular bridges.
- In Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC; a type of skin cancer), the cell of origin is clear as well differentiated SCCs display those structures.