Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system and immune system. They are located throughout the body, with clusters in several key areas:
- Neck and head
- Armpits (axilla)
- Chest
- Abdomen (belly)
- Groin
- Back of the knees
These lymph nodes filter lymph fluid, which contains white blood cells that help fight infections by attacking germs, damaged cells, and cancer cells carried in the lymph
. Lymph nodes act as filters for foreign substances and are connected by lymphatic vessels that carry lymph fluid from tissues toward the chest, where it eventually drains into the bloodstream near the heart
. You can feel lymph nodes in some areas, especially if they are swollen, such as in the neck, armpits, groin, and behind the knees
. There are no lymph nodes in the brain or spinal cord
. In summary, lymph nodes are distributed widely but are most commonly found and palpable in the neck, armpits, groin, chest, abdomen, and behind the knees.
