Lymph Gland

Lymph Gland

The Lymph Gland or Lymph Node is an important part of the Lymphatic System, which plays a crucial role in the body's immune response. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that produce and store cells that fight infection and disease. They are connected by Lymphatic Vessels, which carry lymph, a clear fluid containing white blood cells, throughout the body.

Structure

Lymph nodes are kidney or oval shaped and range in size from a few millimeters to about 1–2 cm in their normal state. They may become enlarged due to a tumor or infection. Each lymph node is surrounded by a fibrous capsule, which extends inside a lymph node to form trabeculae.

Function

The primary function of lymph nodes is the production of Lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in the immune response. Lymph nodes also act as filters, trapping foreign particles and bacteria that are traveling through the body in lymph.

Clinical Significance

Enlarged lymph nodes often signal an infection or disease. For example, Lymphadenopathy refers to nodes that are abnormal in size, number or consistency. Lymphoma is a type of cancer that starts in the lymph nodes.

See Also

• Lymphatic System
• Lymphocyte
• Lymphadenopathy
• Lymphoma