Light and electron microscopic study of perineal gland in the grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus, Temminck 1827).

The thin and ultrathin structure of the perineal gland of the grasscutter was studied using routine histological, histochemical and electron microscopic techniques. The perineal glands were identified in the zona cutanea of the anal canal of males more than 4 months old. These glands are organized on a lobular model made up of sebaceous cells and isolated by connective parietal cells. The paler in colour the sebaceous cells, the more lipid vacuoles they contain. PAS-negative and Sudan III-positive secretions were demonstrated in these cells. Electron microscopy showed that the intracellular organelles were well-developed, which is a mark of high metabolic activity and storage by the glandular cells. Cystic vesicles were found in the lobules. The size and number of these cysts were variable. The position of the cyst cells and the variability of their size suggest that they are formed after lysis of some holocrine secretory cells. These observations suggest a progressive maturation of the gland towards its secretory site. No specific secretory duct for the purpose of draining secretions was observed, however, there were possible discharge pathways, although with no real walls, as is found for the biliary canaliculi.