COMPOUND GLAND Meaning and
Definition
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A compound gland is a type of gland found in the human body that consists of multiple secretory units or structures within a common duct system. These glands are typically more complex in structure compared to other types of glands, such as simple glands, which only have one duct. Compound glands are present in various organs and tissues throughout the body, including the salivary glands, mammary glands, and pancreas.
The secretory units within a compound gland are responsible for producing and secreting substances such as enzymes, hormones, or fluids that play vital roles in various physiological processes. These secretory units are connected to a network of ducts that allow the produced substances to be transported to their intended destinations. The duct system enables the substances to be released either directly onto a surface, such as the inner lining of the gastrointestinal tract or the skin, or into the bloodstream for systemic circulation.
The specific structures and organization of compound glands can vary depending on their location and function. For example, the salivary glands are compound tubuloacinar glands, meaning they consist of numerous secretory units that are both tubular and acinar in shape. This allows for the production of saliva, which aids in the process of digestion. Understanding the structure and function of compound glands is crucial for studying and diagnosing various diseases and disorders that may affect these important glandular organs.
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One composed of several acini grouped around a common duct.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for COMPOUND GLAND
- xompound gland
- vompound gland
- fompound gland
- dompound gland
- cimpound gland
- ckmpound gland
- clmpound gland
- cpmpound gland
- c0mpound gland
- c9mpound gland
- conpound gland
- cokpound gland
- cojpound gland
- comoound gland
- comlound gland
- com-ound gland
- com0ound gland
- compiund gland
- compkund gland
- complund gland
Etymology of COMPOUND GLAND
The word "compound gland" has a straightforward etymology.
The term "gland" comes from the Latin word "glandula", meaning "gland". It originally referred to acorns or other small rounded objects, as glands were often described as resembling such shapes.
The word "compound" derives from the Latin word "componere", which means "to put together" or "to add together". In the context of glands, "compound" indicates that the gland is composed of multiple parts or structures.
Therefore, "compound gland" essentially means a gland that is made up of multiple components or divisions.
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