What is the primary function of apocrine sweat glands in the human body?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option A
- The primary function of apocrine sweat glands in the human body is the secretion of sweat responsible for body odor.
- Unlike eccrine sweat glands, which produce a watery sweat primarily involved in regulating body temperature through evaporative cooling, apocrine glands secrete a thicker fluid rich in proteins and lipids.
- This secretion is initially odorless, but when it comes into contact with skin bacteria, it is broken down and produces the characteristic body odor.
- Apocrine sweat glands are mainly located in areas such as the axillae (underarms), groin, and around the nipples.
- These glands become functional at puberty and are influenced by hormonal changes.
- It is important to note that they are not primarily involved in temperature regulation, unlike eccrine glands.
In summary:
- Apocrine glands secrete sweat that leads to body odor.
- This sweat contains proteins and lipids, which bacteria metabolize to produce odor.
- They are located in specific body regions and become active at puberty.
- They differ from eccrine glands, which mainly regulate body temperature.
Reference: Robbins Basic Pathology, 10th Edition, Chapter 6 - Disorders of Skin, Page 266
- Unlike eccrine sweat glands, which produce a watery sweat primarily involved in regulating body temperature through evaporative cooling, apocrine glands secrete a thicker fluid rich in proteins and lipids.
- This secretion is initially odorless, but when it comes into contact with skin bacteria, it is broken down and produces the characteristic body odor.
- Apocrine sweat glands are mainly located in areas such as the axillae (underarms), groin, and around the nipples.
- These glands become functional at puberty and are influenced by hormonal changes.
- It is important to note that they are not primarily involved in temperature regulation, unlike eccrine glands.
In summary:
- Apocrine glands secrete sweat that leads to body odor.
- This sweat contains proteins and lipids, which bacteria metabolize to produce odor.
- They are located in specific body regions and become active at puberty.
- They differ from eccrine glands, which mainly regulate body temperature.
Reference: Robbins Basic Pathology, 10th Edition, Chapter 6 - Disorders of Skin, Page 266
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