Lobules of Mammary Gland (Superior Lateral Quadrant; Left)

Structure/Morphology

The mammary glands are comprised of 15–20 lobes radiating from the nipple. Each lobe is surrounded by adipose and dense fibrous tissue that arises from the superficial fascia of the thoracic wall.

Each lobe contains 20–40 terminal lobules that form the functional units of the breast. Lobules are formed by clusters of alveoli that are responsible for the production of milk. A network of lactiferous ducts connects the lobules to the nipple for the secretion of milk to the infant (Ovalle, Nahirney and Netter, 2013).