The lymph node (40X)

This is a lymph node at low magnification.

Lymph nodes are lymphatic organs that are embedded in the lymphatic system. Each lymph node receives lymph from a specific organ or area. Lymphatic vessels that carry the lymph to a lymph node are called afferent lymphatic vessels and the vessels that carry the lymph away from the node are called efferent lymphatic vessels.

In the lymph nodes, antigen recognition takes place from antigen-presenting cells and other antigens that come with the lymph. In lymph nodes we find distinct areas where there is a dominance of T-lymphocytes (paracortex) or of B-lymphocytes (cortex with follicles). In the medulla there is a combination of lymphatic tissue (medullary cords and lymph sinuses).