The two primary types of glands in the body are exocrine and endocrine glands. The main difference between them lies in how they release their secretions:
- Exocrine glands release their secretions into a ductal system that carries the secretions to an epithelial surface, like the skin or the lining of an organ. Examples of exocrine glands include sweat glands, salivary glands, and sebaceous glands.
- Endocrine glands release their secretions directly into the bloodstream. These secretions, often called hormones, travel throughout the body and can have a wide range of effects on different tissues and organs. Examples of endocrine glands include the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, and pancreas.
