Brustdrüse

Brustdrüse is the German term for mammary gland. These are exocrine glands found in both male and female mammals. Their primary function is to produce milk, a nutrient-rich substance essential for nourishing offspring after birth. While present in both sexes, the mammary glands are typically much more developed in females and play a crucial role in lactation.

The development and function of the Brustdrüse are heavily influenced by hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone during puberty and pregnancy, and prolactin during lactation. In females, the glands consist of glandular tissue, which produces milk, and a system of ducts that transport the milk to the nipple for excretion. Surrounding fatty tissue provides support and contributes to the overall size of the breast.

In males, the Brustdrüse remains rudimentary and generally does not develop to a functional state, though it can be affected by hormonal imbalances leading to conditions like gynecomastia. The study of the Brustdrüse is relevant to fields such as endocrinology, gynecology, and pediatrics, particularly concerning breastfeeding, infant nutrition, and diseases affecting breast tissue.