lymfoida

Lymfoida is a term used in some languages to refer collectively to lymphoid tissue and lymphoid cells, components of the immune system involved in the production and coordination of lymphocytes. In English, the common terms are lymphoid tissue, lymphoid organs, and lymphocytes. Lymfoida encompasses both primary and secondary lymphoid structures where lymphocytes develop, mature, and interact with antigens.

Primary lymphoid organs include the bone marrow, where B cells complete development, and the thymus, where T cells mature. Secondary lymphoid organs house immune responses after lymphocytes encounter pathogens. These include lymph nodes, the spleen, tonsils, and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT), which covers areas such as the gut (GALT), respiratory tract (BALT, NALT), and other mucosal sites. Lymfoida tissues can be organized into discrete nodules or form diffuse immune compartments within mucosal linings.

Cells typical of lymfoida tissues are lymphocytes—primarily B cells, T cells, and natural killer cells—along with antigen-presenting dendritic cells, macrophages, and plasma cells. Supportive stromal cells and reticular networks help organize cellular interactions and antigen transport.

Functions of lymfoida include the generation and education of lymphocytes, antigen recognition, initiation and regulation of adaptive immune responses, and surveillance against pathogens and malignant cells. Pathological changes in lymfoida tissues can manifest as lymphadenopathy, lymphoma, or inflammatory and immunodeficiency conditions, reflecting altered immune activity or cell growth.

See also: lymphoid tissue, lymphoid organs, immune system, lymphoma.