The word "alveolar gland" is spelled with four syllables: /æl/ - /ˈviə/ - /lər/ - /ɡlænd/. The first syllable "al" is pronounced with the short "a" sound like in "apple" and the second syllable "veo" is pronounced with a schwa sound like in "about". The third syllable "lar" is pronounced with the long "a" sound like in "car" and the final syllable "gland" is pronounced with a hard "g" sound followed by the same vowel as in "land". An alveolar gland is a gland that produces and secretes saliva, milk, or other substances.
An alveolar gland is a type of exocrine gland that is characterized by its microscopic structure, where secretory cells are organized into small sac-like structures called alveoli. These glands are present in various parts of the body, including the respiratory system, mammary glands, and salivary glands.
In the respiratory system, alveolar glands are found in the lungs. They play a crucial role in the production of pulmonary surfactant, a substance that reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing their collapse and facilitating gas exchange during respiration.
In mammary glands, alveolar glands are responsible for the production of milk. During pregnancy and lactation, these glands undergo significant changes, enlarging and branching to form clusters of alveoli. These structures are filled with milk-producing cells and are connected to the nipple by a network of ducts, allowing for the secretion and ejection of milk during breastfeeding.
Similarly, in the salivary glands, the alveolar glands are responsible for producing and releasing saliva into the oral cavity. These glands are present in the submandibular and sublingual salivary glands and contribute to the lubrication and digestion of food.
Overall, alveolar glands are integral to various physiological processes, including gas exchange, milk production, and oral hygiene. Their unique structure and specialized secretory cells make them essential in maintaining the proper functioning of different systems within the body.
Acinous g.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "alveolar gland" has its etymology rooted in Latin. The term "alveolar" is derived from the Latin word "alveolus", which means "small cavity" or "socket". In anatomical terms, it refers to a small, hollow space. The word "gland" originates from the Latin word "glandula", which refers to a gland. Thus, the term "alveolar gland" describes a glandular structure that is composed of small, hollow spaces or sacs.