Urinalysis and Body Fluids 6th Edition by Majorie DiLorenzo, Susan Strasinger

Exercise 48

A clinically significant squamous epithelial cell is the:

A. Cuboidal cell

B. Clue cell

C. Caudate cell

D. Columnar cell

Step 1 of 2

Squamous epithelial cells:

Squamous epithelial cells are found in vaginal linings and urethra (in female) and lower part of urethra (in male).

• They have noticeable nucleus, irregular and abundant cytoplasm.

• They are the largest cells present in urine sediment (40-60 micrometers).

• In low power magnification, squamous epithelial cells are the first structure which appears in urine sediment.

• Variation in squamous epithelial cell is clue cell.

• Clue cell indicates infection of vagina by gardnerella vaginalis bacteria.

• Bacteria cover the squamous epithelial cell and look irregular in appearance.

• Clue cell are significant clinically, their presence should be noticed in urine sediment.

• Clue cell are examined by wet preparation of vagina.

Therefore, “Clue cell” is clinically important squamous epithelial cell. Hence, the correct answer is option.