LYMPH GLANDS Meaning and
Definition
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Lymph glands, also known as lymph nodes, are small, rounded structures located throughout the body as part of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a complex network that includes lymphatic vessels, lymph fluid, lymphoid tissues, and lymphocytes. Lymph nodes are connected by these vessels, forming a pathway for the flow of lymph fluid.
Lymph glands play a crucial role in the body's immune defense system. They act as filtering stations, trapping and destroying harmful pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and abnormal cells, that may enter the lymphatic system. They contain specialized white blood cells called lymphocytes, which are essential components of the immune system and assist in fighting infections.
These glands are distributed strategically in the body, concentrated in areas such as the neck, armpits, groin, chest, and abdomen. They are typically small, ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in diameter, and have a bean-like or round shape. They may be palpable if they are inflamed due to an infection or other health conditions.
When an infection occurs nearby, lymph glands tend to enlarge and become tender, indicating that the immune response is working to fight off the infection. However, persistent swelling or abnormal changes in lymph glands can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as an immune disorder or cancer, and may require further medical investigation.
In summary, lymph glands are small, vital structures within the lymphatic system that help defend the body against infections. They contain lymphocytes and act as filtering stations for harmful pathogens, working in tandem with other components of the immune system for the body's overall well-being.
Common Misspellings for LYMPH GLANDS
- lymp gland
- lymphgland
- lymph gland
- kymph glands
- pymph glands
- oymph glands
- ltmph glands
- lgmph glands
- lhmph glands
- lumph glands
- l7mph glands
- l6mph glands
- lynph glands
- lykph glands
- lyjph glands
- lymoh glands
- lymlh glands
- lym-h glands
- lym0h glands
- lympg glands
Etymology of LYMPH GLANDS
The term "lymph glands" is not used in medical terminology. However, there is the term "lymph nodes" which refer to small, bean-shaped structures located throughout the body that play a major role in the immune system.
The word "lymph" comes from the Latin "lympha", which means "clear water" or "pure water". It was first used in English in the 16th century to describe a clear fluid found in the body.
The term "node" originates from the Latin word "nodus", which means "knot". In the context of anatomy, it refers to a small rounded mass or swelling.
When combined, "lymph nodes" refers to the small knot-like structures that contain lymph, which are an integral part of the body's immune system.
Similar spelling words for LYMPH GLANDS
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