What is a lymph node?
I am 28 years old, male. During a recent hospital checkup, the doctor informed me that I have swollen lymph nodes. I would like to ask, what exactly are lymph nodes?
Doctor's answer (1)
Lymph nodes are a type of lymphatic tissue, mainly distributed in areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin, especially along the pathways of lymphatic drainage. The primary function of lymph nodes is to filter lymph fluid, removing bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens, as well as cancer cells and other harmful substances. Additionally, lymph nodes serve as sites for lymphocyte proliferation and differentiation; these cells play key roles in immune responses.
Morphologically, lymph nodes are oval or bean-shaped, varying in size. Under normal circumstances, they are not easily palpable. When an infection or inflammation occurs in a specific part of the body, the corresponding lymph nodes may swell, serving as an important basis for clinical diagnosis. Dysfunction of lymph nodes, such as in lymphadenitis or lymphoma, can impair the body's immune function and requires timely diagnosis and treatment.
When an infection or inflammation occurs in a certain part of the body, the lymph nodes in the corresponding region may swell, which indicates that the immune system is at work. Therefore, swollen lymph nodes are typically regarded as a signal of inflammation or infection within the body.
