What are sweat glands in the skin commonly referred to as?

Sweat glands in the skin are commonly referred to as sudoriferous glands. This term is derived from the Latin word "sudor," which means sweat. Sudoriferous glands are responsible for the production and secretion of sweat, which plays a crucial role in thermoregulation (regulating body temperature) and excretion of waste products.

These glands can be classified into two types: eccrine glands and apocrine glands. Eccrine glands are found throughout most of the body and help regulate body temperature by producing a watery secretion that cools the skin when it evaporates. Apocrine glands, on the other hand, are found mainly in areas like the armpits and groin; they release a thicker, milky fluid that can contribute to body odor when it comes into contact with bacteria on the skin's surface.

Other options refer to different types of glands in the body. For instance, sebaceous glands are involved in the secretion of sebum (oil) to lubricate the skin and hair, and serous glands are typically associated with the secretion of a watery fluid in the serous membranes. Recognizing the specific functions and characteristics of these glands helps clarify their roles within the integumentary system and distinguishes