laktiferøse

Laktiferøse refers to the ducts within the mammary gland that transport milk from the alveoli, where it is produced, to the nipple. These ducts are lined with epithelial cells and form a branching network throughout the breast tissue. The structure of the laktiferøse system is crucial for effective milk ejection and delivery during lactation.

The laktiferøse ducts begin as small, intralobular ducts within the lobules of the mammary gland. These merge to form larger interlobular ducts, which continue to branch and converge. Towards the nipple, several larger ducts, known as lactiferous sinuses or ampullae, store milk before it is released through the nipple pores. The diameter of these sinuses can vary.

The smooth muscle and myoepithelial cells surrounding the alveoli and ducts play a vital role in milk ejection. Hormones like oxytocin stimulate the contraction of these cells, causing milk to be squeezed through the laktiferøse system and out of the nipple. The functioning of the laktiferøse system is essential for successful breastfeeding and is influenced by hormonal signals and infant sucking. Obstruction or inflammation of these ducts can lead to conditions such as mastitis.