Denoting a mechanism of glandular secretion in which the apical portion of secretory cells is shed and incorporated into the secretion. SEE ALSO: a. gland. [G. apo-krino, to separate]
* * *
apo·crine 'ap-ə-krən, -.krīn, -.krēn adj producing a fluid secretion by pinching off one end of the secreting cells which then reform and repeat the process <\apocrine glands> also produced by an apocrine gland compare ECCRINE, HOLOCRINE, MEROCRINE
* * *
adj.
1. describing sweat glands that occur only in hairy parts of the body, especially the armpit and groin. These glands develop in the hair follicles and appear after puberty has been reached. The strong odours associated with sweating result from the action of bacteria on the sweat produced by apocrine glands. Compare eccrine.
* * *
apo·crine (apґo-krin) [Gr. apokrinesthai to be secreted] denoting that type of glandular secretion in which the free end or apical portion of the secreting cell is cast off along with the secretory products that have accumulated therein.Medical dictionary. 2011.