Some neglected aspects of the anatomy of human breasts

Abstract

The undersurface of the epidermis covering the tip of the nipple is similar to that of tactile surfaces; at the sides it is more shallow than in the areola where it is evenly reticulated. These are the distinctive structural signatures of the areas. Both the nipple and the areola are glabrous and both have galactophores and sebaceous glands. In the nipple these open only at the tip and are grouped mostly toward the center. In the areola are the glands of Montgomery, accompanying sebaceous glands and a few scattered eccrine sweat glands. Hairs of different sizes are always present at the periphery of the areola but not in its middle. Both the galactophores and sebaceous glands contain variable numbers of melanocytes among their epithelial cells. Sensory nerve end organs are found only at the tip of the nipple and sensory nerves are loosely wrapped around the galactophores, lactiferous ducts, and some lactiferous sinuses. Both the nipple and the areola have a bountiful framework of elastic fibers that supply rigidity and support, anchor smooth muscle fibers, keep the lactiferous ducts and sinuses from collapsing, and attach the epidermis to the dermis. Elastosis frequently takes place in the nipples and areolae, even at comparatively early ages. The nipples and areolae of women, men, girls, and boys are qualitatively identical but quantitatively different.