glandula

Glandula is the Latin term for a gland and is used in anatomical nomenclature and historical texts. In modern anatomy, a gland is an organ specialized for secretion, producing substances used within the body or on its surfaces. Glands are broadly categorized as exocrine, which have ducts to carry secretions to a target site, and endocrine, which are ductless and release hormones into the circulatory system. Exocrine glands include salivary glands, lacrimal glands, gastric glands, and sweat glands. Endocrine glands include the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal glands, and the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas. Some glands exhibit both properties and are called mixed or compound glands.

Secretions can be enzymes, mucus, or hormones. The microscopic structure often features secretory units called acini or tubules, arranged with ducts that connect to a surface or cavity. Regulation occurs through neural input and hormonal signals, and secretion can be modulated by feedback mechanisms to maintain homeostasis. Developmentally, glandular tissue derives from multiple embryological layers, depending on the gland type.

Clinically, gland function can be altered by disease: hypofunction, hyperfunction, inflammatory conditions, and tumors such as adenomas or carcinomas. Diagnostic approaches include history and examination, laboratory assays (for hormone or enzyme levels), imaging, and biopsy. Etymology: glandula is Latin for a small gland, and the term appears in historical and some scientific names. The modern English term "gland" is derived from the same root.