The word "glandula areolaria" refers to a gland found in the areola or pigmented area around the nipple. The first part of the word "glandula" is pronounced [ɡlændjʊlə], with the emphasis on the second syllable. The second part, "areolaria," is pronounced [əriˈlæriə], with the emphasis on the third syllable. The word is commonly used in medical terminology and understanding its correct spelling and pronunciation is important in the healthcare industry. Learning proper IPA phonetic transcription can facilitate accurate communication in this field.
Glandula areolaria is a Latin term that translates to "areolar gland" in English. It refers to a type of glandular tissue found in the areola, which is the dark-colored area surrounding the nipple on the breast.
Areolar glands are small, tubular structures located within the subcutaneous layer of the breast. These glands are present in both males and females, although they are more developed in females due to their role in lactation. They are also known as Montgomery's glands, named after Dr. William Fetherstone Montgomery, an Irish obstetrician who first described them.
The main function of glandula areolaria is to secrete a substance that lubricates and moisturizes the nipple and areola. The secretion, often referred to as "areolar fluid," contains lipids, proteins, and antibodies that help protect the nipple from various infections and irritations. It also assists in nipple erection and facilitates breastfeeding by keeping the area supple and preventing it from drying out.
The number of areolar glands can vary among individuals, with some having only a few while others may have dozens. The prominence and size of these glands can increase during pregnancy and breastfeeding. They have specialized ducts that open directly onto the surface of the areola, allowing the secretions to reach the nipple easily.
Overall, glandula areolaria plays an important role in maintaining the health and function of the nipple-areola complex and supporting breastfeeding in females.
Areolar gland, Montgomery's gland, one of a number of cutaneous glands forming small, rounded projections from the surface of the areola of the mamma.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "glandula areolaria" is a scientific term in Latin used to describe a type of gland. The etymology of this term can be broken down as follows:
1. Glandula: This term is derived from the Latin word "glans" which means "acorn" or "gland" because certain glands were thought to resemble acorns in shape. Over time, "glandula" came to represent various secretory organs in the body.
2. Areolaria: This term is derived from the Latin word "areola" which means "a small open space" or "a small courtyard". In anatomy, "areola" is often used to refer to darkened areas of skin around the nipple or the pigmented area around a skin lesion. "Areolaria" is the adjectival form, meaning "pertaining to an areola".