Apocrine sweat glands differ from eccrine glands in their autonomic control. Which statement is correct?
- A Apocrine glands are activated by circulating catecholamines acting on adrenergic receptors ✓
- B Apocrine glands receive only parasympathetic cholinergic innervation
- C Eccrine glands respond primarily to adrenaline in the bloodstream
- D Both gland types are controlled exclusively by local axon reflexes
Correct answer: A. Apocrine glands are activated by circulating catecholamines acting on adrenergic receptors
Explanation
Apocrine glands (axilla, perineum) respond to adrenergic stimulation, including circulating epinephrine, which explains their activation during stress and fear. Eccrine thermoregulatory glands are driven by sympathetic postganglionic fibres that release acetylcholine, making option C incorrect. Neither type relies exclusively on axon reflexes; central thermoregulatory drive controls eccrine secretion over the whole body surface.
Reference: Ganong's Review of Medical Physiology, 26th ed.
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