The term "glandula sebacea" refers to a small gland in the skin that produces sebum, an oily substance that lubricates and waterproofs hair and skin. The word is originated from Latin, and thus the spelling may be difficult to understand. The phonetic transcription of this term is ˈɡlændjʊlə sɪˈbeɪʃə, indicating that "glandula" is stressed on the second syllable while "sebacea" is stressed on the third, and the "c" in "sebacea" is pronounced as "s". Understanding the phonetic transcription can help in correctly spelling and pronouncing this term.
The term "glandula sebacea" refers to a specialized type of exocrine gland found in the skin of mammals, including humans. Also known as sebaceous glands, these glands are responsible for producing and secreting sebum, an oily substance that lubricates and waterproofs the skin and hair.
Glandula sebacea glands are typically attached to hair follicles and are most abundant on the scalp, face, and upper chest and back regions. They consist of small clusters of cells that actively produce sebum. The secretion of sebum occurs through a process called holocrine secretion, where the entire cell disintegrates and releases the sebum. The secreted sebum then travels through the hair follicle and reaches the surface of the skin.
The function of glandula sebacea glands is to protect and moisturize the skin and hair. Sebum acts as a natural moisturizer, preventing the skin from drying out and maintaining its elasticity. It also helps in maintaining the health of the hair, keeping it lubricated and preventing it from becoming brittle.
While sebum is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and hair, excessive production can lead to oily skin and hair, resulting in conditions such as acne. Additionally, blockages in the hair follicles can cause sebaceous cysts to form, which may require medical attention.
Overall, glandula sebacea glands play a vital role in the well-being of the skin and hair, ensuring they remain nourished, hydrated, and protected.
Sebaceous gland, one of a large number of glands in the corium, which open into the hair follicles and secrete an oily, semifluid substance, sebum cutaneum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The etymology of the word "glandula sebacea" can be broken down as follows:
1. Glandula: The word "glandula" originates from the Latin noun "glandula", which means acorn or gland. It is derived from the Latin verb "glans", meaning acorn or gland, which represents the shape and function of many glands in the body.
2. Sebacea: The term "sebacea" comes from the Latin adjective "sebaceus", which means fatty or greasy. It is derived from the Latin noun "sebum", meaning grease or tallow. "Sebum" is associated with the oily substance secreted by the sebaceous glands.
Therefore, "glandula sebacea" refers to the sebaceous gland, an oil-producing gland found in the skin.