Which part of the breast is the Montgomery glands situated?

Appeared in: RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

Montgomery glands, also known as areolar glands, are modified sebaceous glands located on the surface of the areola.
The areola is the pigmented, circular area of skin that surrounds the base of the nipple.
Therefore, the location of Montgomery glands is correctly described as being 'near the base of the nipple'.
These glands secrete a lipoid fluid that lubricates and protects the nipple and areola, preventing cracking during lactation.

Option B: The alveoli are the milk-producing sacs located deep within the glandular tissue (lobules) of the breast, not on the surface near the nipple.
Option C: The lactiferous sinus is a dilated (widened) portion of a lactiferous duct located just beneath the nipple, which serves as a reservoir for milk. It is an internal ductal structure.
Option D: The lactiferous ducts are the channels or tubes that transport milk from the alveoli (where it is produced) to the nipple. They are internal structures, not surface glands.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomy of the female breast as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
During pregnancy and lactation, Montgomery glands often become more prominent and enlarged due to hormonal changes. Nurses can educate expectant mothers that this is a normal physiological adaptation.
The protective, lubricating secretion from these glands helps to prevent nipple soreness, cracking, and potential infections like mastitis during breastfeeding.
A patient may express concern about the 'bumps' on her areola. A nurse can provide reassurance by explaining the normal anatomy and function of Montgomery glands.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key anatomical structure in the question, which is 'Montgomery glands'.
Recall the basic anatomy of the breast. Differentiate between external/surface structures (nipple, areola) and internal structures (ducts, lobules, alveoli).
Remember that Montgomery glands are visible as small bumps on the areola.
The areola is the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple. Therefore, the glands are located 'near the base of the nipple'.
Evaluate the options based on this knowledge. 'Alveoli', 'lactiferous sinus', and 'lactiferous duct' are all internal parts of the milk production and transport system, making them incorrect choices for a surface gland.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QMjrgwpTtFBZiGZJWQaofG

E6 Anatomy BDChaurasia V1 10e p. 46-48

E6 Histology Inderbir 11e p. 131-133

Practise the full RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.