Lymph glands, more commonly known as lymph nodes, are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system. They play a crucial role in the body's immune response. Here's an overview of their structure and functions:
- Structure and Location:
- Lymph nodes are distributed throughout the body, often found in groups.
- They are particularly concentrated in areas like the neck (cervical nodes), armpits (axillary nodes), chest (mediastinal nodes), abdomen (abdominal nodes), and groin (inguinal nodes).
- Each lymph node is surrounded by a fibrous capsule and contains lymphatic tissue made up of immune cells such as lymphocytes (including T cells and B cells) and macrophages.
- Functions of Lymph Nodes:
- Filtration of Lymph: Lymph nodes filter lymph, a clear fluid that circulates through the lymphatic system. This fluid contains nutrients, oxygen, hormones, and waste products. Lymph nodes trap and destroy bacteria, viruses, and other potentially harmful substances that the lymph carries.
- Immune Response Activation: Lymph nodes are sites where immune responses are initiated. When pathogens are trapped in a lymph node, lymphocytes within the node become activated. This activation leads to the production of more immune cells, which then circulate to fight off the infection.
- Production of Lymphocytes: Lymph nodes are a site for the production and maturation of lymphocytes, particularly B cells.
- Storage of Immune Cells: They store various types of white blood cells that are crucial for immune responses.
- Clinical Significance:
- Swollen or tender lymph nodes can be a sign of infection or, less commonly, other medical conditions, including certain cancers.
- They are often examined by doctors as a part of clinical evaluation for various diseases.
Lymph nodes are an integral part of the lymphatic system, which works in conjunction with the circulatory system to maintain fluid balance in the body, absorb fats from the digestive tract, and provide a critical component of the immune system.
