Which of the following organs has both endocrine and exocrine functions?

• A. Adrenal gland
• B. Pituitary gland
• C. Thyroid gland
• D. Pancreas

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the difference between endocrine and exocrine functions. Endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream, while exocrine glands release their secretions through ducts to an epithelial surface or organ lumen.
2. Step 2: Review the functions of each organ listed: the adrenal gland, pituitary gland, and thyroid gland are primarily endocrine glands, meaning they release hormones directly into the blood without using ducts.
3. Step 3: Recognize that the pancreas has dual functions: it acts as an endocrine gland by releasing hormones like insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream, and as an exocrine gland by producing digestive enzymes that are secreted into the small intestine through ducts.
4. Step 4: Conclude that the pancreas is the organ with both endocrine and exocrine functions because it performs hormone secretion and enzyme secretion via ducts.
5. Step 5: Summarize that among the options, the pancreas uniquely combines these two types of glandular functions, making it the correct answer.