Medical Terminology & Anatomy Flashcards

What anatomical structure prevents milk from continuously leaking from the nipple between feedings?

Answer: Smooth muscle of the nipple

Smooth muscle fibers arranged circularly and longitudinally within the nipple act as a functional sphincter to prevent constant milk leakage.

The term 'galactopoiesis' refers to which process?

Answer: The maintenance of established milk production

Galactopoiesis is the process of maintaining ongoing milk production once lactation has been established, dependent on continued suckling and prolactin.

Which of the following correctly describes the anatomical path of milk from production to delivery?

Answer: Alveoli → lobules → lobes → lactiferous ducts → nipple pores

Milk is produced in alveoli, drains through intralobular ducts into lobules and lobes, then travels through lactiferous ducts to exit at the nipple pores.

The prefix 'lacto-' as used in 'lactocyte' refers to:

Answer: Milk

The prefix 'lacto-' is derived from Latin 'lac/lactis' meaning milk, so a lactocyte is a milk-producing epithelial cell lining the alveoli.

In anatomy, the term 'retromammary space' refers to:

Answer: The loose connective tissue layer between the breast and pectoralis fascia

The retromammary space is a layer of loose areolar tissue lying between the posterior surface of the breast and the pectoral fascia, allowing breast movement.

Which term describes the complete cessation of milk production?

Answer: Agalactia

Agalactia is the absence or failure of milk secretion, with the prefix 'a-' meaning without or absence of.

The areola contains specialized glands called Montgomery glands that serve which function during breastfeeding?

Answer: Secrete a lubricating and antimicrobial substance protecting the nipple

Montgomery glands (areolar glands) secrete a sebaceous substance that lubricates the nipple-areolar complex and has antimicrobial properties.