CH. 7 H&N

Exocrine Gland

A gland that has a duct associated with it, allowing secretion to be emptied directly into its target area.

Endocrine Gland

A ductless gland that releases its secretions (hormones) directly into the vascular system.

Lacrimal Glands

Paired exocrine glands that secrete lacrimal fluid or tears, crucial for eye lubrication.

Salivary Glands

Glands that produce saliva, aiding in digestion and oral hygiene, divided into major and minor categories.

Parotid Gland

The largest major salivary gland, contributing about 25% of total saliva, with a duct that opens into the oral cavity.

Submandibular Gland

The second-largest salivary gland, contributing around 60-65% of saliva, with mixed serous and mucous secretions.

Sublingual Gland

The smallest major salivary gland, contributing approximately 10% of saliva, predominantly secreting mucous.

Thyroid Gland

The largest endocrine gland that secretes thyroxine to regulate metabolism; located in the neck.

Parathyroid Glands

Small endocrine glands that regulate calcium and phosphorus levels through the secretion of parathyroid hormone.

Thymus Gland

An endocrine gland part of the immune system where T-cell lymphocytes mature; decreases in size after puberty.

Lacrimal Duct

A duct that allows lacrimal fluid to drain from the lacrimal sac into the nasal cavity.

Blood Supply

The system of arteries and veins that provides nutrients and oxygen to glands, facilitating hormone transport.

Innervation

The supply of nerves that control gland function, affecting secretion rate.

Lymphatic Drainage

The process by which lymphatic vessels remove excess fluid and waste from the glands.

Minor Salivary Glands

Numerous smaller glands scattered throughout the oral cavity, contributing less than 10% of total saliva.

Cervical Ganglia

Sympathetic nerve structures that innervate the thyroid and parathyroid glands.

Adrenal Glands

Glands located on top of each kidney, responsible for producing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which help regulate metabolism and stress response.

Pituitary Gland

Often referred to as the 'master gland,' it regulates other endocrine glands and secretes hormones that control growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

Pancreas

An organ that has both endocrine and exocrine functions, producing insulin and glucagon for glucose regulation and digestive enzymes.

Hypothalamus

A region of the brain that links the nervous system to the endocrine system, controlling the pituitary gland and regulating homeostasis.

Pineal Gland

A small endocrine gland in the brain that produces melatonin, influencing sleep-wake cycles.