lymphatic disorders
heart and blood vessel disorders
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are tiny, bean-shaped organs that filter Overview of the Lymphatic System . They are located throughout the body, but particular collections are found just under the skin in the neck, under the arms, and in the groin area. Lymph nodes are part of the Lymph is clear fluid that is made up of water, White Blood Cells , proteins, and fats that have filtered out of blood vessels into the spaces between cells. Some of the fluid is reabsorbed by the blood vessels, but the rest enters the lymphatic vessels. Lymph then passes through the lymph nodes, which are specific collection points where damaged cells, infectious organisms, and cancer cells are filtered from the fluid and destroyed. If many infectious organisms or cancer cells are present, the lymph nodes swell. Sometimes, organisms cause infection within a lymph node. Lymphadenopathyis the term doctors use to refer to swollen lymph nodes. Lymphadenitis None A few small nodes often can be felt in healthy people. Lymph nodes that are larger and easily felt may be a sign of a disorder. Some people use the term "swollen glands" to refer to swollen lymph nodes, especially when the nodes in the neck are swollen. However, lymph nodes are not Endocrine Glands . Lymph nodes in only one body area may be swollen, or nodes in two or more body areas can be swollen. Other symptoms, such as sore throat, runny nose, or fever, may be present depending on the cause. Sometimes swollen lymph nodes are discovered when the person is being examined because of another symptom. 