List of lymph nodes of the body

List of Lymph Nodes of the Body

The human body contains a vast network of lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped structures that play a crucial role in the immune system. Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, which helps the body to fight infections and diseases. They filter lymph, a clear fluid that circulates through the lymphatic vessels, trapping bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances, which are then destroyed by specialized cells called lymphocytes.

Overview

Lymph nodes are located throughout the body, often in groups. Each group of lymph nodes is responsible for filtering lymph from specific regions of the body. The size and number of lymph nodes can vary greatly from person to person. They are typically 0.1 to 2.5 cm in length and can become enlarged due to infection, inflammation, or cancer.

Major Lymph Node Groups

Below is a list of the major lymph node groups in the human body, along with their general locations:

Head and Neck

• Cervical lymph nodes: Located along the sides of the neck. These nodes filter lymph from the head and neck region.
• Parotid lymph nodes: Found near the parotid gland, below and in front of the ears. They filter lymph from the nasal cavity, pharynx, and the posterior part of the oral cavity.
• Submandibular lymph nodes: Located beneath the jawline. These nodes filter lymph from the portions of the oral cavity and the face.
• Submental lymph nodes: Found under the chin. They primarily filter lymph from the floor of the mouth and the tip of the tongue.

Upper Limbs

• Axillary lymph nodes: Located in the armpits. They filter lymph from the upper limbs, chest, and upper back.

Thorax

• Mediastinal lymph nodes: Located in the mediastinum, the central compartment of the thoracic cavity. These nodes filter lymph from the thoracic viscera.
• Tracheobronchial lymph nodes: Found around the trachea and the bronchi. They filter lymph from the lungs and airways.

Abdomen and Pelvis

• Mesenteric lymph nodes: Located in the mesentery, the fold of tissue that attaches the intestines to the posterior abdominal wall. They filter lymph from the intestines.
• Para-aortic lymph nodes: Found along the aorta in the abdomen. These nodes filter lymph from the lower thorax, abdomen, and pelvis.
• Inguinal lymph nodes: Located in the groin. They filter lymph from the lower limbs, external genitalia, and lower abdominal wall.

Lower Limbs

• Popliteal lymph nodes: Found in the popliteal fossa, the area behind the knee. They filter lymph from the lower leg.

Function

The primary function of lymph nodes is to filter and purify lymph, trapping foreign particles like bacteria and viruses. They contain immune cells that can attack and destroy these invaders, helping to protect the body from infection and disease. Lymph nodes also play a role in the activation of the immune response, as they are sites where immune cells can be rapidly multiplied.

Clinical Significance

Lymph nodes can become swollen or enlarged due to infection, inflammation, or cancer. Swollen lymph nodes are often a sign of an ongoing immune response. However, persistent enlargement of lymph nodes may be indicative of more serious conditions, such as lymphoma or metastatic cancer, and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.