Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus
Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.
http://www.nucleusinc.com
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands in the body. They are part
of the lymphatic system, which carries lymph fluid, nutrients, and waste
material between the body tissues and the bloodstream. The lymphatic system is
part of the immune system-the body's defense system against disease.
Lymph nodes are found singly or in groups. They may be as small as
the head of a pin or as large as an olive. Groups of lymph nodes can be felt in
the neck, groin, and underarms. Many lymph nodes in the body cannot be
felt.
When a part of the body is infected, the nearby lymph nodes can
become swollen. For example, if a person has a throat infection, the lymph
nodes in the neck may swell and become tender.
