Urethral gland

Urethral gland
Details
Identifiers
Latin glandulae urethrales urethrae masculinae
TA A09.2.03.013
FMA 19683

Anatomical terminology

The urethral or periurethral glands (also Littre glands after Alexis Littré)[1] are glands that branch off the wall of the urethra of male mammals. The glands secrete mucus[2] and are most numerous in the section of the urethra that runs through the penis. Urethral glands produce a colloid secretion containing glycosaminoglycans; this secretion protects the epithelium against urine.[3]

Unsafe sex can lead to urethritis. Untreated, this can lead to infection of the urethral glands, which can cause the urethra to be impeded by strictures.

References

  1. Littre's glands at Who Named It?
  2. "Male Reproductive System". University of Ottawa. Retrieved 26 May 2012.
  3. Human Microscopic Anatomy: An Atlas for Students of Medicine and Biology By Radivoj V. Krstić, page 382


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