The effect of aging on women's mammary gland (histological study by using ImageJ-software technique)

Abstract

Background: The mammary glands are responsible for milk production in infants. It comprises lobes, lobules, secretory alveoli, and ducts for milk transport to the nipples. These structures are surrounded by adipose tissue, which provides insulation and protection to the mammary glands. Objective: To examine mammary gland growth and development from puberty to menopause
Materials and methods: This study involved 60 samples collected from corpses at Baghdad's Morgue Department of the Forensic Medicine Department. The ages of the participants ranged from 15 to over 60 years. The collected samples were divided into three groups: group I (15- 25 years), group II (26-45 years), and group III (46-60 years). The samples were fixed in 10% NBF and processed with H&E and PAS staining. Results: The number of lobules between groups was counted, and different numbers of lobules between groups were observed. The thickness of the epithelial lining of the secretory units (SU) was also measured. The diameters of the secretory glands were measured between the groups. Thickness of epithelial lining of secretory units. The results were statistically significant (p = 0.001). This study aimed to evaluate the age-related changes in women's mammary glands. Group I had inactive secretory alveoli with fewer and smaller lobules. Group II, representing late pregnancy or lactation, exhibited swollen mammary glands with larger diameters, milk secretions, and more lobules. Group III,   corresponding   to   menopause,   displayed   numerous   alveoli undergoing cell death and was replaced by connective and fat tissues. Conclusion: The histological features of mammary glands transition progressively from active to regressive states as age advances.