![]() ![]() Several mechanisms can cause the lymph nodes to enlarge (swell). Swollen lymph nodes can be caused by infection, inflammation, or cancer. A major cluster of the lymph nodes is the spleen, which, apart from other functions, also helps fight infections and responds to foreign substances in the body. The lymph nodes are a major site where foreign substances and infectious agents interact with the cells of the immune system.They act as the "cleaner" cells of the body. The cells in lymph nodes are lymphocytes, which produce antibodies (protein particles that bind foreign substances including infectious particles) and macrophages which digest the debris. Lymph nodes are small clusters of cells, surrounded by a capsule. ![]() Lymph contains a concentration of infectious and other foreign substances (antigens). They bring the lymph back into the circulation through the veins. The lymphatic system consists of nodes and ducts spread throughout the body.There is also a large group of lymph nodes in the chest and abdomen, which are sometimes found to be enlarged on X-rays or CT scans. The ones most frequently enlarged or swollen are found in the neck (a chain of lymph nodes is located in the front of the neck, the sides of the neck, and the back of the neck behind the ears), under the chin, in the armpits, and in the groin. There are several groups of lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped, soft nodules of tissue. Swollen lymph nodes may indicate an infection. Lymph nodes (erroneously called lymph glands) are a part of the lymphatic system, a component of the body's immune system. ![]()
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