Apocrine glands are primarily located in which areas, and what do they secrete?

• A. Groin and Armpits; Milky Fluid That Produces Body Odor
• B. Palms and Soles; Watery Sweat
• C. Scalp; Oily Secretion
• D. Eyelids; Waxy Fluid

Answer: (A)

Apocrine glands are a type of sweat gland located mainly in hair-bearing areas such as the armpits and the groin. They secrete a thicker, milky fluid that itself isn’t strongly odorous, but bacteria on the skin break it down and this produces body odor. This distinguishes them from eccrine glands, which are spread more widely (including the palms and soles) and produce a watery sweat mainly for cooling. It also contrasts with sebaceous glands in the scalp that secrete oil (sebum) to lubricate hair, and with glands in the eyelids (Meibomian glands) that produce a waxy fluid to keep the eyes lubricated. So, the groin and armpits with a milky secretion is the best match for apocrine glands.