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Lymph nodes are structures of the lymphatic system, the role of which in providing the body with immunity cannot be overestimated.
Lymph nodes are small oval structures, up to 1 cm in size, connected to each other by lymphatic vessels. Together, they form a network that wraps around the human body that catches pathogens and initiates immune responses.
During the examination, the doctor may palpate the lymph nodes located superficially, shallowly under the skin. Belong to them:
– submandibular, cervical, neck and occipital lymph nodes
– supraclavicular and subclavian nodes
– axillary and inguinal lymph nodes
Nodes located deep in the body, located perivascularly, can be visualized by imaging tests, e.g. ultrasound or computed tomography.
Lymph nodes become enlarged as a result of:
– primarily an infection in the immediate vicinity of a given group of nodes or a systemic infection of various etiology (bacterial, viral, fungal and protozoal)
– neoplastic disease, primarily located in the nodes (i.e. lymphomas and leukemias) or causing metastases to them
– systemic disease, e.g. sarcoidosis
– also allergic and parasitic diseases
Any enlargement of the nodes over 1 cm should be diagnosed by a doctor, due to the risk of neoplasm localization in them. Often, finding the cause is difficult and requires the doctor to collect an extended interview covering such aspects as contact with wild and domestic animals, diet, traveling to exotic countries, etc.
bow. med. Aleksandra Czachowska
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