Internal mammary

Internal Mammary refers to the structures within the mammary gland that are involved in the production and delivery of milk. The internal mammary is a complex system of ducts and lobules that are responsible for the production, storage, and delivery of milk in mammals.

Anatomy

The internal mammary is composed of several key structures, including the lobules, ducts, and connective tissue. The lobules are the milk-producing glands, while the ducts transport the milk from the lobules to the nipple. The connective tissue, which includes fat and fibrous tissue, supports and protects the lobules and ducts.

Function

The primary function of the internal mammary is to produce and deliver milk. This process, known as lactation, is regulated by hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin. Prolactin stimulates the lobules to produce milk, while oxytocin triggers the contraction of the ducts to deliver the milk to the nipple.

Clinical Significance

The internal mammary is often involved in various breast diseases, including breast cancer. In breast cancer, malignant cells can invade the lobules or ducts, leading to the formation of a tumor. The internal mammary lymph nodes are also an important site for the spread of breast cancer.

See Also

• Mammary gland
• Lactation
• Breast cancer