lymph node

lymph gland

Any of the rounded masses of lymphoid tissue that are surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue, are distributed along the lymphatic vessels, and contain numerous lymphocytes which filter the flow of lymph.

Type Bone
Body System Lymphatic/Immune
Parent Structure immune organ
Latin Name lymph gland
FMA ID 5034

Sub-structures

abdominal lymph node Organ brachial lymph node Vessel bronchial lymph node Organ cervical lymph node Organ deep lymph node Organ lymph node of head Organ lymph node of lower limb Organ lymph node of upper limb Organ pelvic lymph node Organ peripheral lymph node Organ pulmonary lymph node Organ renal lymph node Organ retroperitoneal lymph node Organ subcutaneous lymph node Organ sublumbar lymph node Organ superficial lymph node Organ thoracic lymph node Organ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the internal anatomy of a lymph node?
Lymph nodes are encapsulated by a fibrous capsule from which trabeculae extend inward. The outer cortex contains follicles (B cell zones) with germinal centers during immune responses. The inner paracortex is T cell-rich. The medulla contains medullary cords (antibody-secreting plasma cells) and sinuses draining to the efferent lymphatic vessel at the hilum.
How do lymph nodes filter lymph?
Lymph enters lymph nodes through multiple afferent lymphatic vessels and percolates through a network of subcapsular, cortical, and medullary sinuses. Macrophages lining these sinuses phagocytose pathogens, cell debris, and foreign particles, while lymphocytes sample antigens to initiate adaptive immune responses.
Why do lymph nodes swell during infection?
Lymph node enlargement (lymphadenopathy) occurs when lymphocytes rapidly proliferate in response to antigens, filling lymphoid follicles with activated B and T cells. Increased macrophage activity and edema within the node also contribute to swelling, which clinically signals ongoing immune activity or infection.

Related Structures

arthropod hepatopancreas crustacean digestive gland bone marrow medulla of bone dorsal patch of Leydig's organ epigonal organ subgonal organ haemal node hemal node hematopoietic tissue bone marrow tissue hilum of spleen hilum immune organ immune system organ

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Educational Disclaimer

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Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.