One of the most branched and numerous (in terms of organs) systems is the lymphatic system. In a person, the location of the lymph nodes, like other organs, is not accidental. Consider what functions the entire system and its constituent organs and communications perform. The lymph node is an organ of the lymphatic system responsible for the self-cleaning of lymph, which flows through the channels from the human organs. In shape, these nodes can be different: spherical, oval, oblong and in the form of a chain. Once in the lymph node, the lymph contains harmful impurities and particles of pathogens. A complex biochemical reaction takes place in the node, which destroys them and cleanses the lymph.
How many lymph nodes do you think a person has? You will not believe, but there are 150 of them. In the group can be from a few pieces to dozens of lymph nodes. It is easy to calculate that the total number is about 1000 pieces. In addition to shape and quantity, these nodes also have different sizes. According to statistics, sizes can vary from 0.5 to 20 millimeters. Lymph itself is a light (often white) thick liquid. And the lymph node is light gray in color. However, these characteristics are inherent in a healthy body. If there is any inflammatory process, then changes occur in the lymph nodes. Sometimes this is accompanied by pain in the usual state, sometimes by touching or pressing a knot, and sometimes just by a strong swelling (noticeable to the naked eye).
In all people, regardless of gender, the location of the lymph nodes is the same. This allows for accurate diagnosis, regardless of gender. It is worth noting that at different ages and depending on gender, the lymph nodes have a different shape and size. Lymph nodes are located mainly near the vital centers of a person - near veins and arteries, major junctions and especially important organs. In a way, these are sensors that combine the function of filters. There are 18 main types of lymph nodes, depending on the location on the body. All of them perform the same function of cleaning and creating immunological cells for the whole organism (by binding to an organ or system).
The location of the lymph nodes according to their position on the body from top to bottom:
1. The mouth: lymphoepithelial ring;
2. Neck: ear, occipital, cervical and supraclavicular;
3. Shoulder area: connecting, chest and axillary;
4. Breast area: intrathoracic and bronchopulmonary;
5. Area of the abdomen: splenic, mesenteric and paraaortic;
6. Elbow area: ulnar;
7. Groin area: iliac, inguinal and femoral;
8. Knee area: popliteal.
As you can see, the location of the lymph nodes is quite extensive and covers the entire human body. This location allows you to control not only internal processes, but also the external activity of a person. In other words, the lymph node can become inflamed both from the inflammatory process, and from a dislocation or fracture. Infectious diseases that lead to an increase in lymph nodes are genital diseases, rotting processes, tuberculosis and SARS. With tumor diseases, the lymph nodes can not only swell, but also condense. Often the examination regarding the state of the lymph nodes is carried out by simple feeling, i.e. tactile method.
If you suspect a serious illness, with sudden inflammation, or with an additional general examination in case it is difficult to make any diagnosis, an ultrasound of the lymph nodes is prescribed. The ultrasound procedure consists in examining the main groups of accumulation of lymph nodes. The monitor displays a picture of the internal organs and the geometric dimensions of the nodes. According to them (adjusted for gender and age) it is determined whether the parameters are normal or not. This method allows you to identify something that does not show x-rays or other tests. And since the reaction of the group is associated with the location of neighboring organs, the disease is determined by the method of exceptions.