lümfisõlmed

Lümfisõlmed, also known as lymph nodes, are small, bean-shaped organs that are part of the lymphatic system. They are found throughout the body, clustered in areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin. Lümfisõlmed play a crucial role in the body's immune defense system.

The primary function of lümfisõlmed is to filter lymph fluid, a clear or yellowish fluid that circulates throughout the lymphatic system. This lymph fluid carries waste products, bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances from the body's tissues. As lymph fluid passes through the lümfisõlmed, specialized white blood cells called lymphocytes and macrophages within the nodes identify and destroy these harmful agents. This filtering process helps to prevent infections from spreading throughout the body.

When the body is fighting an infection, lümfisõlmed can become swollen and tender. This swelling, often referred to as swollen glands, is a sign that the immune system is actively working to combat the invader. The size and tenderness of lümfisõlmed can provide valuable diagnostic information for healthcare professionals. In some cases, cancer cells can also travel to lümfisõlmed and form secondary tumors, which is why lümfisõlmed are often examined during cancer staging.