The four main locations where clusters of lymph nodes are found are the neck, armpits, groin, and abdomen.
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system. They filter lymph fluid, which contains white blood cells that help fight infection and disease. These nodes are strategically positioned throughout the body, with clusters in specific areas.
Main Lymph Node Locations
Here's a breakdown of the four primary locations of lymph node clusters:
Location | Description |
---|---|
Neck | Lymph nodes in the neck drain lymph from the head and neck areas. They can become enlarged during infections like colds or sore throats. |
Armpits | Also known as axillary lymph nodes, these drain lymph from the arms, chest, and upper abdomen. They are often examined in cases of breast cancer. |
Groin | Also known as inguinal lymph nodes, these drain lymph from the legs, pelvic area, and external genitalia. They can become swollen due to infections or injuries in these regions. |
Abdomen | Abdominal lymph nodes are located within the abdominal cavity and drain lymph from the abdominal organs. These can be affected by various conditions, including infections and cancers. |
It's important to remember that while these are the main locations, lymph nodes are found throughout the body. These four areas are simply where they are most concentrated and commonly examined.