Lymph nodes are bean-shaped small masses of lymphoid tissue that are wrapped by a fibrous capsule of connective tissue and keep in association with the lymphatic vessels. As an element of the body’s lymphatic system, lymph nodes serve as filters for the circulating blood of the body. Lymph nodes primarily consist of the outer cortex and the inner medulla structures, which keep the main sites of B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes as well as other accessory cells such as dendritic cells and macrophages. One of the essential functions of the lymph node is to promote the activation and maturation of immature B cells, which could ultimately form effective plasma cells against foreign particles. As the central of filtering invaders and other undesired substances from the blood, lymph nodes are vulnerable to diseases. When suffering from infections, injuries, or cancers, the node or the group of lymph nodes in that area may become swell or enlarged which reflects on conditions of the body. Some target molecules of the lymph node tissue are utilized for clinical diagnosis and detection in lymph node disorders.
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