All the following are exocrine glands, except:

IGNOU PB Bsc Nsg.Entrance-2026

Applied Physiology

Easy

Appeared in: IGNOU PB Bsc Nsg.Entrance-2026

Explanation

Adrenal glands are part of the endocrine system, not the exocrine system.
Unlike exocrine glands, endocrine glands are ductless and secrete their products (hormones) directly into the bloodstream.
The adrenal glands produce vital hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline, which regulate metabolism, blood pressure, and the stress response.
All other options—sweat glands, salivary glands, and goblet cells—are exocrine glands that secrete substances through ducts or directly onto a surface.

Option A: Sweat glands are a classic example of exocrine glands. They possess ducts that transport sweat to the surface of the skin for thermoregulation.
Option C: Salivary glands are multicellular exocrine glands that secrete saliva into the oral cavity through a system of ducts, aiding in digestion and lubrication.
Option D: Goblet's glands, or goblet cells, are specialized unicellular exocrine glands found in the epithelial linings of the respiratory and intestinal tracts. They secrete mucus to protect the membrane.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification and difference between exocrine and endocrine glands as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the difference between gland types is crucial for diagnosing and managing endocrine disorders (e.g., Cushing's syndrome from adrenal hyperfunction) and exocrine disorders (e.g., Sjögren's syndrome affecting salivary and lacrimal glands).
A nurse's assessment may include observing for signs of endocrine imbalance (e.g., changes in weight, mood, energy) or exocrine dysfunction (e.g., dry mouth, dry eyes, digestive issues).
What if the question asked for a gland with both exocrine and endocrine functions (a heterocrine gland)? The correct answer would be the Pancreas, which produces digestive enzymes (exocrine) and hormones like insulin and glucagon (endocrine).

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the keyword 'except'. This tells you to find the option that is different from the others.
Next, define the core concept in the question stem: 'exocrine glands'. Recall that exocrine glands use ducts to secrete substances onto a surface.
Evaluate each option against this definition.
Option A (Sweat glands), C (Salivary glands), and D (Goblet's glands) all fit the definition of exocrine glands.
Option B (Adrenal glands) does not fit. It is an endocrine gland, which is ductless and secretes hormones into the blood.
Therefore, the adrenal gland is the exception and the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Classification and difference between exocrine and endocrine glands.
Stem keywords: exocrine glands
Lead-in keywords: except
Negative lead-in flag: The question uses the word 'except', which requires identifying the option that does not fit the given category (exocrine glands).