abdominal mammary gland

abdomen lactiferous gland

A lactiferous gland that is part of the abdominal region [Automatically generated definition].

Type Gland
Parent Structure mammary gland
Latin Name abdomen lactiferous gland

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the abdominal mammary gland?
The abdominal mammary gland (known in anatomical terminology as abdomen lactiferous gland) is a lactiferous (milk-producing) gland located in the abdominal region. In animals with multiple mammary glands arranged in rows (such as pigs, dogs, or rodents), the abdominal pair occupies the abdominal segment of the mammary chain.
Where is the abdominal mammary gland located?
The abdominal mammary gland is found along the ventral abdomen, positioned between the inguinal (groin) glands below and the thoracic (chest) glands above. In species with multiple mammary glands, this location places it mid-chain along the ventral midline.
What is the function of the abdominal mammary gland?
The abdominal mammary gland produces and secretes milk to nourish offspring during lactation. Its function is hormonally regulated by prolactin, oxytocin, and estrogen, and it develops fully during pregnancy.
What conditions can affect the abdominal mammary gland?
Mastitis (infection of the mammary gland), mammary tumors, and galactocele (milk cyst) can affect this gland. In female dogs and other animals, mammary neoplasia is a significant veterinary health concern, particularly in unspayed females.
How is the abdominal mammary gland different from other mammary glands in the same row?
The abdominal mammary gland functions similarly to other mammary glands in the same animal, but its anatomical position may result in slightly different lymphatic drainage patterns. In veterinary medicine, the position of a mammary tumor relative to the abdominal vs. inguinal glands can influence which lymph nodes are involved.

Related Structures

1st arch mandibular component ventral mandibular arch 1st arch mandibular ectoderm ectoderm of mandibular component 1st arch mandibular mesenchyme mandibular component mesenchyme 1st arch mandibular mesenchyme from head mesenchyme 1st arch mandibular mesenchyme from neural crest 1st arch maxillary component 1st arch maxillary ectoderm ectoderm of maxillary component 1st arch maxillary-mandibular cleft 1st arch maxillary-mandibular groove ectoderm

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Educational Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions.

Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.