Breast duct

Breast Duct

The breast duct, also known as the mammary duct, is a component of the female reproductive system that plays a crucial role in the process of lactation. It is a part of the mammary gland that carries milk from the lobules, where it is produced, to the nipple.

Structure

The breast duct system is composed of a network of branching ducts that vary in size. These ducts are lined with two layers of cells, an inner layer of luminal cells and an outer layer of myoepithelial cells. The ducts begin at the lobules and end at the nipple.

Function

The primary function of the breast duct is to transport milk from the lobules to the nipple during lactation. The myoepithelial cells surrounding the duct contract to facilitate this process.

Clinical Significance

Several medical conditions are associated with the breast ducts. These include ductal carcinoma in situ, a type of breast cancer that originates in the ducts, and mastitis, an infection of the breast tissue that results in breast pain, swelling, warmth and redness. Another condition, duct ectasia, involves the widening and thickening of the duct walls.

See Also

• Mammary gland
• Lactation
• Breast cancer
• Mastitis
• Duct ectasia