apocrine gland

Apocrine gland.
Image: © Procter and Gamble

One of two types of sweat-producing gland that occur in human skin, the other being eccrine glands. Apocrine glands are restricted mainly to the armpits and groin. In response to sex and stress stimuli, they secrete a liquid which is readily decomposed by bacteria giving rise to odor. The apocrine glands become very active with the onset of puberty.

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• ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY

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