Lymph Nodes Submandibular

Submandibular lymph nodes: anatomy and functions

The lymphatic system is an important part of our immune complex and performs a number of important functions, including protecting the body from infections and removing waste and toxins. Lymph nodes are distributed throughout the body and play a key role in filtering lymph and activating immune cells. One of the groups of lymph nodes that are responsible for draining certain areas of the head and neck are the submandibular nodes.

The submandibular lymph nodes, also known as the submandibular nodes, are located under the lower jaw in the area of ​​the submandibular fossa. They consist of a capsule of connective tissue, inside which are located lymphoid tissues and specialized immune cells. These nodes are an important component of the lymphatic system of the head and neck and play a role in filtering lymph, removing microorganisms and other harmful substances, and activating immune cells.

The functions of the submandibular nodes include protecting the body from infections and tumors in the head, face, mouth and neck. When infection or inflammation occurs in these areas, the lymph nodes become active to fight the infection. They filter lymph, trap bacteria, viruses, tumor cells and other foreign substances, and activate immune cells to fight them.

In addition to their protective function, the submandibular nodes are also important in the diagnosis and staging of head and neck tumors. With cancer in these areas, tumor cells can spread through the lymphatic vessels and settle in the submandibular nodes. By examining these nodes, medical personnel can obtain information about the presence or absence of metastases, which helps in treatment planning and determining the stage of the disease.

Various methods are used to access the submandibular nodes. During a clinical examination, your doctor may palpate these nodules to determine their size, consistency, and tenderness. To more accurately assess the condition of the nodes, additional methods such as ultrasound, computed tomography or biopsy may be used.

In conclusion, the submandibular lymph nodes play an important role in protecting the body from infections and tumors in the head and neck region. They perform the functions of filtering lymph, removing harmful substances and activating immune cells. These nodes are also used in the diagnosis and staging of head and neck tumors. Understanding the anatomy and functions of the submandibular lymph nodes is important for the medical community in the treatment and diagnosis of various diseases.