496 LACTIFEROUS DUCTS. 



There have been some instances in which it has secreted 

 milk in adult males ; and a few instances also in which it has 

 been affected with cancer, in the same sex. 



The mamma is plentifully supplied with absorbent vessels, 

 which pass from it to the lymphatic glands in the axilla. 



Its nerves are principally derived from the great plexus 

 formed by the nerves of the, arm. 



The skin covering the mammary gland, is exceedingly 

 thin, delicate and vascular, and that of the nipple and areola, 

 more delicate and sensitive than any other portion. 

 Each lactiferous duct by its branching and convolutions, 

 forms a distinct lobule of the gland, and terminates in a series 

 of vascular granules* the ultimate caecal termination of the ducts 

 about the size of a millet seed, which are readily distinguished 

 from each other in individuals who have died during lactation. 

 The lobules of the gland vary in size, which, in subjects where 

 the subcutaneous matter is not abundant, gives a feeling of un- 

 evenness or roughness to the gland. 

 There are no valves in the lactiferous tubes. 



* Histoire de la Generation, par Grimaud de Caux et Martin Saint- Ange, 

 4to. Paris, 1837. p. 



