What forms can transitional epithelial cells take?

Transitional epithelial cells, also referred to as urothelial cells, are specialized cells that make up the lining of the urinary bladder and parts of the urinary tract. These cells are distinct in their ability to change shape in response to the fluctuations in bladder volume.

The correct answer identifies that transitional epithelial cells can take on spherical, polyhedral, and caudate forms. Their unique morphology is characterized by their ability to appear in a variety of shapes, which allows them to stretch and accommodate the varying volumes of urine in the bladder. When the bladder is empty, these cells are typically round or dome-shaped, appearing more spherical. As the bladder fills, the cells can flatten and spread out, adopting a polyhedral shape due to the stretching of the epithelium. The term "caudate" can refer to cells that have tail-like projections or extensions, which can also occur in some transitional epithelial adaptations as they stretch.

Other choices do not accurately describe the morphology of transitional epithelial cells. While cylindrical and cuboidal shapes are found in other types of epithelial cells, they do not represent the characteristics of transitional cells. Similarly, flat or elongated forms, as noted in other options, pertain more to other epithelial types rather than the flexible and