Axillary lymph nodes
Axillary Lymph Nodes[edit]
The Axillary Lymph Nodes are a group of lymph nodes located in the axilla (armpit). They play a crucial role in the immune system, acting as filters for harmful substances and are a key component in the body's defense against infection and disease.
Anatomy[edit]
The axillary lymph nodes are divided into five groups: pectoral (anterior), lateral, subscapular (posterior), central, and apical nodes. These nodes are located near the large blood vessels and nerves in the axilla.
Function[edit]
The primary function of the axillary lymph nodes is to filter lymph, a clear fluid that circulates through the lymphatic system carrying cells that help fight infection and disease. They also play a significant role in the body's immune response, producing and storing cells that fight infection and disease.
Clinical Significance[edit]
The axillary lymph nodes are often examined in the diagnosis and staging of breast cancer. Enlarged axillary lymph nodes can be a sign of a systemic infection or metastasis of cancer. The removal of these nodes, known as an Axillary lymph node dissection, is a common procedure in the treatment of breast cancer.
