Definition: A lymph node is a gland-like structure, normally up to a 1/2 inch in size, which contains disease-fighting lymphocytes, lymph fluid and tissue that act as a frame or supporting structure called "connective tissue." Lymph nodes are part of the immune system and are interconnected by lymphatic vessels, which are tiny channels that resemble blood vessel capillaries, where lymphatic fluid circulates. Cancer cells can break off and find their way in to the lymphatic system. When they get trapped in lymph nodes, the cancer cells grow and the lymph node becomes enlarged.
Pronunciation: limf node
Also Known As: lymph glands
Examples:
During surgery lymph nodes were removed as part of the staging procedure and were found to contain cancer cells.
