This type of exocrine gland releases its secretions by causing the cell to rupture.

The type of exocrine gland that releases its secretions by causing the cell to rupture is classified as holocrine. In holocrine secretion, entire cells accumulate secretions in their cytoplasm, and when the cells become filled and rupture, the contents are released into the duct. This method of secretion allows a more substantial amount of product to be released at once, as the whole cell is lost in the process.

In contrast, the other types of glands function differently in their secretion processes. Apocrine glands release their secretions by budding off a portion of the cell cytoplasm, which does not involve cell rupture. Merocrine glands secrete their products via exocytosis, allowing the cell to remain intact. Exocrine is a general term for glands that secrete into ducts, without specifying the mode of secretion. Hence, the characteristic feature of holocrine glands—complete cell rupture—distinguishes it as the correct answer in this context.