Areolar tubercles
Tubercula areolae
- Eponym: Tubercles of Montgomery
Definition
Areolar tubercles, also known as Montgomery tubercles (or Montgomery glands), are small, raised sebaceous glands located on the surface of the areola surrounding the nipple. They typically number between 10 and 15 per areola and become more prominent during pregnancy and lactation.
Key features:
They represent the openings of the glands of Montgomery, which are modified sebaceous glands that may also contain rudimentary mammary gland tissue.
Their primary function is to secrete a lipoid fluid that lubricates and protects the nipple and areola, particularly during breastfeeding. This secretion also has mild antimicrobial properties.
During pregnancy, these tubercles enlarge and become more visible — their prominence can be an early sign of pregnancy.
They play a role in neonatal olfactory signaling, as the secretions may help guide the newborn to the breast for feeding.
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