Ductul

Ductul is a term used in anatomy to denote a small duct. It is the diminutive form of ductus in Latin and appears in historical or Latinized nomenclature, sometimes as an alternative spelling of ductulus or ductule. In modern texts, ductulus or ductule is more common, but ductul may still be encountered in older literature or in certain anatomical vocabularies.

Ductuli function as conduits that transport secretions from secretory units to larger ducts or to surfaces. They are present in many glands and organ systems and often form part of a hierarchical duct system, beginning with ductules that feed into intercalated or striated ducts before reaching the main excretory duct.

Ductuli are typically lined by simple cuboidal or columnar epithelium, with supportive lamina propria. Some ductuli contain smooth muscle fibers that aid in propulsion of secretions. The exact histological features vary by tissue, reflecting their specific secretory products.

In the pancreas and salivary glands, small ducts collect secretions from acinar cells and channel them toward the main ducts. Obstruction, dilation, or inflammation of ductuli can contribute to gland dysfunction or disease. The term remains primarily of historical or descriptive value, with ductule or ductulus prevailing in contemporary usage. See also ductulus; ductule; ductus; ductal system.