== Lymph Nodes ==

Lymph nodes are round, ovoid or bean-shaped organs found widely distributed in the body. Important groups of lymph nodes occur in chains along the course of blood vessels in such regions as the axilla, groin and mesentery. Lymph nodes are the only lymphatic organs to have an afferent lymphatic supply. They are interposed in the lymphatic drainage of numerous regions of the body. The lymph flowing through the nodes is filtered and phagocytic activity occurs on the particulate matter carried in the lymph. Lymph nodes are important centers for the production of lymphocytes, plasma cells and antibodies. Lymphocytes and antibodies are added to the lymph, which leaves the node by way of the efferent lymph vessels. Lymph nodes are fixed to surrounding connective tissue by loosely arranged fibers that continue into the capsule of the node.