Areola
Areola
Areola (/əˈriːələ/; plural: areolae /əˈriːəliː/) is a small circular area on the body with a different histology than the surrounding tissue, or other small circular areas such as an inflamed region of skin.
Etymology
The term areola is derived from Latin area, a small open space, and was used in anatomy by 1600.
Anatomy
The areola is part of the mammary gland, or breast. In humans, it is located on both males and females, surrounding the nipple. The areola contains modified sweat glands known as Montgomery's glands. These glands secrete oil that lubricates the nipple/areola area.
Function
The primary function of the areola is to protect the mammary gland. The size and color of the areola can change in response to hormonal changes in the body. For example, the areola may darken and increase in size during pregnancy.
Related Terms
- Nipple: The projection of skin and mammary gland that may produce milk in females.
- Mammary gland: The milk-producing gland in female mammals.
- Montgomery's glands: Sebaceous glands in the areola that secrete a lubricating oil.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Areola
- Wikipedia's article - Areola
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