The human body contains several glands that generate numerous secretions such as sweat, saliva, oil, and hormones. These glands may be roughly divided into two groups anatomically depending on whether ducts are present or not. Exocrine glands emit hormones through ducts, whereas endocrine glands release hormones directly.

For further understanding, we will distinguish them based on:

1. Ducts:

Ducts are present in Exocrine glands and absent in Endocrine glands.

2. Secretory products:

Hormones are secreted by endocrine glands.

Sweat, enzymes, mucus and sebum are secreted by exocrine glands.

3. Route of secretion:

Hormones released by the endocrine glands are directly secreted into the blood stream that ultimately reaches the target organ.

The exocrine glands release their products through ducts to an internal organ or to an external surface.

4. Examples

Endocrine glands: Adrenal glands, pituitary glands, thyroid glands and parathyroid glands.

Exocrine glands: Oesophageal glands, Brunner’s glands, salivary glands and liver.

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/21201-endocrine-system

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22947-exocrine-glands