Which of the following glands also serves as an exocrine gland?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which gland is also an exocrine gland. This means the gland is mainly endocrine (releases hormones directly into the blood) but also has an exocrine function (releases secretions through a duct).

Step 2: Explain the concept

• Endocrine glands are ductless. They release hormones directly into the bloodstream (e.g. thyroid, adrenal).
• Exocrine glands have ducts. They release secretions such as enzymes, sweat, or saliva to a specific site.
• Mixed (heterocrine) glands do both.

Step 3: Check each option

• A. Ovary: It produces oestrogen and progesterone (endocrine). It releases eggs, but eggs are cells, not a duct-based gland secretion. It is considered endocrine.
• B. Pancreas: The islets of Langerhans secrete insulin and glucagon directly into the blood (endocrine). The pancreas also secretes pancreatic juice (amylase, trypsin, lipase) through the pancreatic duct into the duodenum (exocrine). This makes it a mixed gland.
• C. Adrenal: It secretes adrenaline, cortisol and aldosterone into the blood. It is purely endocrine.
• D. Thyroid: It secretes thyroxine into the blood. It is purely endocrine.

Step 4: Answer The pancreas is the only gland in the list that has both endocrine and exocrine functions.

Correct answer: B. Pancreas

Exam tip: Remember "Pancreas = Plays both roles." When you see "also exocrine" or "mixed gland" in a question, think pancreas first. Its endocrine hormones are insulin and glucagon, and its exocrine product is pancreatic juice.