Thoracic lymph node

Thoracic lymph nodes are a group of lymph nodes located in the thoracic cavity. They play a crucial role in the immune system, acting as filters for harmful substances and are involved in the immune response.

Anatomy

The thoracic lymph nodes are divided into several groups, including the parasternal lymph nodes, intercostal lymph nodes, and mediastinal lymph nodes. Each group is located in a different part of the thoracic cavity and drains different regions of the body.

Parasternal lymph nodes

The parasternal lymph nodes are located along the sternum. They receive lymph from the mammary glands, thoracic wall, and abdominal wall.

Intercostal lymph nodes

The intercostal lymph nodes are located between the ribs. They receive lymph from the back, chest, and abdominal wall.

Mediastinal lymph nodes

The mediastinal lymph nodes are located in the mediastinum, the space between the lungs. They receive lymph from the heart, lungs, and esophagus.

Function

The primary function of the thoracic lymph nodes is to filter lymph, a clear fluid that contains white blood cells, before it returns to the bloodstream. This process helps to remove harmful substances, such as bacteria and cancer cells, from the body.

In addition, the thoracic lymph nodes are involved in the immune response. When the body is infected, the lymph nodes produce more white blood cells to fight off the infection. They also produce antibodies, proteins that bind to foreign substances and help to neutralize them.

Clinical significance

Diseases of the thoracic lymph nodes include lymphadenopathy, lymphoma, and metastasis. In lymphadenopathy, the lymph nodes become enlarged due to infection or inflammation. In lymphoma, a type of cancer, the lymph nodes become malignant. In metastasis, cancer cells from other parts of the body spread to the lymph nodes.

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