Smallest functioning unit of the breast is called what?

Smallest functioning unit of the breast is called what?

• A. Acini
• B. Lobule
• C. Duct
• D. Alveolus

Answer: (A)

The smallest functioning unit of the breast is the acinus. These tiny secretory clusters are where milk is produced, with secretory cells lining a central lumen. Several acini come together to form a lobule, and lobules drain through ducts that merge into the lactiferous ducts toward the nipple. So, while a lobule is a larger grouping and a duct is the passageway for milk, the actual production happens at the acini, making them the smallest functional unit.

The smallest functioning unit of the breast is the acinus. These tiny secretory clusters are where milk is produced, with secretory cells lining a central lumen. Several acini come together to form a lobule, and lobules drain through ducts that merge into the lactiferous ducts toward the nipple. So, while a lobule is a larger grouping and a duct is the passageway for milk, the actual production happens at the acini, making them the smallest functional unit.