Areolar glands

Areolar glands, also known as Montgomery glands (or glands of Montgomery), are large sebaceous glands located in the areola of the breast. They appear as small, rounded elevations on the surface of the areola, known as Montgomery tubercles.

Key characteristics:

• Structure: They are modified sebaceous glands that may also contain rudimentary mammary gland tissue. Each gland opens onto the surface of the areola through a small duct.

• Number: Typically, there are 10–15 tubercles per areola, though the number can vary.

• Function: They secrete a lipoid fluid that serves to lubricate and protect the nipple and areola, particularly during breastfeeding. This secretion has antimicrobial properties and helps maintain the integrity of the skin in this region. The secretion also produces a subtle odor that may help guide the newborn to the breast.

• Clinical significance: These glands become more prominent during pregnancy and lactation due to hormonal stimulation. Blocked Montgomery glands can occasionally become inflamed or infected, forming small cysts or abscesses. Their enlargement is considered one of the early signs of pregnancy.

Montgomery glands are named after the Irish obstetrician William Fetherstone Montgomery (1797–1859), who first described them in detail.