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Difference Between Endocrine Gland and Exocrine Gland

Glands are classified by how they release their secretions - directly into the blood or through ducts.

In short

Endocrine glands are ductless and pour hormones directly into the blood; exocrine glands have ducts that carry their secretions to a specific surface or cavity.

Endocrine Gland vs Exocrine Gland - Comparison Table

BasisEndocrine GlandExocrine Gland
DuctAbsent (ductless)Present
SecretionHormonesEnzymes, sweat, saliva, etc.
Released intoBloodDucts → surface/cavity
ActionSlow, long-lasting, distantFast, local
ExamplesPituitary, thyroid, adrenalSalivary, sweat, sebaceous

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Frequently Asked Questions - Endocrine Gland vs Exocrine Gland

Which gland is both endocrine and exocrine?
The pancreas is both: its islets of Langerhans act as an endocrine gland (secreting insulin and glucagon into blood), while its acini act as an exocrine gland (secreting digestive enzymes into the duct).
Why are endocrine glands called ductless glands?
They are called ductless because they have no ducts - they release hormones straight into the surrounding blood capillaries.