EPICRINE Meaning and
Definition
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Epicrine is an adjective that refers to a type of sweat gland found in mammals. These glands are responsible for producing and releasing sweat onto the surface of the skin. The term "epicrine" is specifically used to describe the mode of sweat secretion in which the sweat is released directly through the surface pores without passing through any ducts or channels.
Epicrine sweat glands are distinguished from apocrine sweat glands, which release sweat into hair follicles and are found in areas such as the armpits and genital regions. Unlike apocrine sweat glands, epicrine sweat glands are distributed all over the body. They are mainly concentrated on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and on the forehead.
The sweat produced by epicrine glands consists mainly of water, along with various dissolved substances like electrolytes. Its primary purpose is to cool down the body by evaporating on the skin surface, thereby regulating body temperature. Epicrine sweating is typically associated with physical activities, exercise, high temperatures, or emotional stress.
In summary, "epicrine" describes a type of sweat gland that releases sweat directly onto the skin's surface through open pores. This natural process plays a crucial role in thermoregulation and helps in maintaining the body's internal temperature within a narrow range.
Common Misspellings for EPICRINE
Etymology of EPICRINE
The word epicrine is formed by combining two Greek roots: epi- meaning on or upon, and krinein meaning to separate or to secrete.
