Lactiferous ducts
Lactiferous Ducts
Lactiferous ducts (pronunciation: lak-tif-er-ous duhkts) are the structures in the female mammary gland that transport milk from the lobules, where it is produced, to the nipple. The term "lactiferous" is derived from the Latin words "lac" (milk) and "ferre" (to bear or carry), while "duct" comes from the Latin "ducere" (to lead).
Anatomy
The mammary gland is composed of 15-20 lobes, each containing several lobules. The lobules produce milk, which is then transported through a complex network of lactiferous ducts. These ducts converge at the nipple, where they form a dilated structure known as the lactiferous sinus. The lactiferous sinus stores milk before it is secreted through the nipple.
Physiology
During pregnancy and lactation, the lactiferous ducts undergo significant changes. They increase in size and number to accommodate the increased production of milk. The ducts also become more permeable, allowing milk components to pass through more easily.
Related Terms
- Mammary gland: The gland in females that produces milk for feeding offspring.
- Lobules: Small, bulb-like structures in the mammary gland where milk is produced.
- Nipple: The protrusion on the breasts through which milk is secreted.
- Pregnancy: The period of time when a woman carries a developing fetus in her uterus.
- Lactation: The process of producing and secreting milk from the mammary glands.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lactiferous ducts
- Wikipedia's article - Lactiferous ducts
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