Definition: A lymph node is one of 300 small, bean-shaped organs clustered mostly in the neck, armpit and groin. They are filled with a type of white blood cell (lymphocytes) and act as filters to trap bacteria, viruses and other foreign substances such as cancer cells. Swollen lymph nodes (called lymphadenopathy) indicates a high level of activity, as is the case when the body is fighting cancers such as melanoma. Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, which also includes the tonsils, thymus, spleen, and bone marrow. Swollen lymph nodes may be the result of cancer, an infection, an insect bite, or a drug reaction.
Also Known As: lymph gland
Common Misspellings: lymf, limf, limph
