Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

Which of the following is not a common characteristic of an exocrine gland?

1. Initially secretes its products into a duct.

2. Secretes materials into the lumen of hollow organs.

3. Secretes materials onto outer surface of the body.

4. Secretory products are carried in body fluids to distant target cells.

The correct answer is: Secretory products are carried in body fluids to distant target cells.

The reason that the option indicating secretory products being carried in body fluids to distant target cells is not characteristic of an exocrine gland is that exocrine glands have a specific method of secretion that is different from that of endocrine glands. Exocrine glands release their products through ducts either onto the surface of an organ or into a cavity, which allows for localized action where the secretion is deposited. In contrast, endocrine glands release their hormones directly into the bloodstream, where the secretory products can travel significant distances to target cells throughout the body. This represents a fundamental distinction between the two types of glands: exocrine glands work primarily through ducts and have more localized effects, while endocrine glands serve a more widespread regulatory role through systemic circulation. Understanding this distinction is crucial in the study of human physiology and the roles that different types of glands play in bodily functions.