Lymph Nodes Directory

Lymph nodes are small glands in the body. They are part of the lymphatic system, which carries lymph fluid, nutrients, and waste material between the body tissues and the bloodstream. The lymphatic system is an important part of the immune system, the body's defense system against disease. The lymph nodes filter lymph fluid as it flows through them, trapping bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances, which are then destroyed by special white blood cells. When a part of the body is infected, the nearby lymph nodes become swollen as they collect and destroy the infecting organisms. For example, if a person has a throat infection, the lymph nodes in the neck may swell and become tender. In addition, cancer can spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about lymph nodes, what they look like, what to do if they swell, and much more.