Parotid lymph nodes

Parotid Lymph Nodes are a group of lymph nodes located in the vicinity of the parotid gland, which is the largest of the salivary glands. They play a crucial role in the immune system, helping to filter out harmful substances and fight off infections.

Etymology

The term "parotid" is derived from the Greek words "para" meaning beside and "otid" meaning ear, referring to the gland's location near the ear. The term "lymph node" comes from the Latin "lympha" meaning water, referring to the clear fluid that circulates through them.

Anatomy

The parotid lymph nodes are located superficial to the parotid gland. They receive afferent lymphatic vessels from the lateral parts of the eyelids, the conjunctiva, the auricle, and the external acoustic meatus. Efferent vessels from these nodes pass to the superficial cervical lymph nodes.

Function

The primary function of the parotid lymph nodes, like other lymph nodes, is to produce and store cells that fight infection and disease. They filter lymph fluid, trapping bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances, which are then destroyed by special white blood cells known as lymphocytes.

Clinical Significance

Enlargement of the parotid lymph nodes can be a sign of infection or disease. This can occur in conditions such as mumps, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and lymphoma. In addition, cancer can spread to the parotid lymph nodes from other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis.

Related Terms

• Lymphatic system
• Lymphatic vessel
• Lymphocyte
• Metastasis

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