An adult human body contains approximately 800 lymph nodes. These nodes are strategically located at the convergence of major blood vessels and play a crucial role in filtering lymph, fighting infection, and identifying malignancy.
Location of Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are commonly found in the following areas:
- Neck
- Axilla (armpit)
- Thorax (chest)
- Abdomen
- Groin
Function of Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are vital components of the immune system, serving multiple critical functions:
- Filtering Lymph: Lymph nodes filter incoming lymph, removing waste, debris, and pathogens.
- Infection Response: They play a crucial role in the body's defense against infection.
- Malignancy Detection: Lymph nodes are involved in identifying and responding to malignancy.