Sweat glands

Definition

Sweat glands are small tubular structures in the skin responsible for producing sweat. They play a crucial role in thermoregulation and excretion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. There are two main types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine.
2. Eccrine glands are found all over the body and open directly onto the skin surface.
3. Apocrine glands are located in areas abundant with hair follicles, such as armpits and groin, and they secrete a thicker fluid into hair follicles.
4. Sweat production helps regulate body temperature by evaporative cooling.
5. The microbiota on the skin can metabolize components of sweat, leading to body odor.

Review Questions

• What are the two main types of sweat glands, and where are they primarily located?
• How do sweat glands contribute to thermoregulation?
• What role does skin microbiota play in relation to sweat?

Related terms

Eccrine Glands: Glands that open directly onto the skin surface responsible for regulating temperature through sweating.

Apocrine Glands: Glands that secrete a thicker fluid into hair follicles, typically found in areas like armpits and groin.

Microbiota: The community of microorganisms living on or within another organism, playing essential roles in health and disease.