Which gland secretes earwax?

Study for the Galen Anatomy and Physiology (AandP) 1 Theory Exam 2. Gain confidence with flashcards, pinpoint areas needing focus, and strengthen understanding through detailed explanations. Excel in your exam with comprehensive preparation!

Multiple Choice

Which gland secretes earwax?

Explanation:
Ceruminous glands in the external ear canal are responsible for earwax. These specialized glands secrete a waxy substance called cerumen, which combines with secretions from nearby sebaceous glands to form earwax. This cerumen helps protect the ear by trapping dust and microorganisms, lubricating the canal, and providing antimicrobial properties. Other glands listed produce different secretions—sebaceous glands make oily sebum, eccrine glands sweat mainly for cooling, and apocrine glands produce a thicker, odor-associated sweat in certain regions—so they don’t generate earwax.

Ceruminous glands in the external ear canal are responsible for earwax. These specialized glands secrete a waxy substance called cerumen, which combines with secretions from nearby sebaceous glands to form earwax. This cerumen helps protect the ear by trapping dust and microorganisms, lubricating the canal, and providing antimicrobial properties. Other glands listed produce different secretions—sebaceous glands make oily sebum, eccrine glands sweat mainly for cooling, and apocrine glands produce a thicker, odor-associated sweat in certain regions—so they don’t generate earwax.

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