Multicellular glands are typically classified as which type?

• A. Endocrine glands
• B. Exocrine glands
• C. Both exocrine and endocrine
• D. None of the above

Answer: (B)

Gland type is defined by whether its secretions use a duct to reach a surface. Multicellular glands are built with secretory units connected to ducts, so their products are released onto an epithelium or into a lumen via those ducts. This ducted, surface-releasing arrangement is what makes them exocrine glands. Endocrine glands, by contrast, lack ducts and release hormones directly into the bloodstream. While some organs (like the pancreas) have both exocrine and endocrine components, the typical multicellular gland is classified as exocrine because its hallmark feature is the duct system delivering secretions to a surface.