Difference between Endocrine and Exocrine Glands - Testbook.com

Last Updated on Jul 31, 2023
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The human body is a complex system that includes numerous glands, each producing a variety of secretions like hormones, saliva, sweat, and oil. These glands are categorically divided into two types based on their duct structure: Endocrine glands and Exocrine glands. Endocrine glands are those without ducts that directly secrete hormones into the bloodstream, whereas exocrine glands secrete their products through ducts. Let's delve deeper into the differences between these two.

Contrasting Exocrine Glands and Endocrine Glands
Endocrine Glands
Exocrine Glands
Ducts
Endocrine glands lack ducts. Exocrine glands possess ducts.
Secretory Products
Hormones Enzymes, sweat, mucus, oil
Route of Secretion
The secretory products are directly released into the bloodstream, which are then transported to the target organ. The secretory products are released either to an internal organ or to the external surface via a duct.
Examples
Pineal gland, hypothalamus, ovaries, testes. Mammary glands, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, lacrimal glands.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Endocrine glands are called ductless gland. They secrete hormones which are essential for the coordination of our activities. These hormones are secreted directly into the blood to circulate throughout our body.

Exocrine gland is a gland that pours its secretion on the surface or into a particular region by means of ducts for performing a metabolic activity.

Mixed gland is a gland which has both endocrine and exocrine functions. The exocrine component has ducts, through which its secretions pass. The pancreas is a gland with both endocrine (insulin and glucagon secretion) and exocrine (secretion of digestive enzymes) functions.

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