Apocrine gland

Apocrine gland
File:Apocrine gland.png Diagram of an apocrine gland
Details
System	Integumentary system
Location	Axilla, areola, perianal region
Function	Secretion of sweat
Identifiers
Latin	glandula apocrina
TA98
TH	{{#property:P1694}}
TE	{{#property:P1693}}
FMA	{{#property:P1402}}
Anatomical terminology

The apocrine gland is a type of sweat gland that is found in specific areas of the human body, including the axilla (armpits), areola of the breast, and the perianal region. These glands are responsible for the secretion of a viscous fluid that, when broken down by bacteria on the skin, can lead to body odor.

Structure

Apocrine glands are larger than eccrine glands, which are the other major type of sweat gland in the human body. They are coiled tubular glands that open into the hair follicle, rather than directly onto the skin surface. The secretory portion of the gland is located in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue.

Function

The primary function of apocrine glands is to secrete a milky fluid that is rich in proteins and lipids. This secretion is initially odorless but can develop a strong odor when it comes into contact with bacteria on the skin. Apocrine glands become active during puberty and are believed to play a role in pheromone production, which may influence social and sexual behavior.

Mechanism of Secretion

Apocrine glands release their secretions through a process known as apocrine secretion. In this process, the apical portion of the glandular cell pinches off, releasing the secretion into the duct. This is in contrast to eccrine glands, which use merocrine secretion, where the secretions are excreted via exocytosis without any loss of cellular material.

Clinical Significance

Apocrine glands can be involved in certain medical conditions. For example, hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic skin condition characterized by the inflammation of apocrine glands, leading to painful nodules and abscesses. Additionally, apocrine glands can give rise to certain types of tumors, such as apocrine adenomas and apocrine carcinomas.

Also see

• Eccrine gland
• Sebaceous gland
• Hidradenitis suppurativa
• Sweat gland