The mammary gland is a modified sweat gland present in the superficial fascia of the pectoral region.
Ø The mammary gland is found in both sexes. However, it remains rudimentary in male but becomes well-developed in female at puberty. On rare occasions the breasts of male become enlarged, this condition is called gynecomastia.
Ø In female, it forms an accessory sex organ of female reproductive system and provides milk to the newborn baby.
Ø The anatomy of breast is of great surgical importance, and therefore, needs to be studied in detail.
LOCATION
Ø The breast is located in the superficial fascia of the pectoral region. A small extension from its superolateral part (axillary tail of Spence) however pierces the deep fascia and extends into the axilla.
Ø The aperture in the deep fascia through which axillary tail passes into the axilla is called foramen of Langer.
Ø The axillary tail is the site of high percentage of breast tumor.
SHAPE AND EXTENT
Ø Shape
Hemispherical bulge.
Ø Extent
-
Vertically, it extends from 2nd rib to 6th rib.
-
Horizontally, it extends from lateral border of the
-
sternum to the midaxillary line.