Comparitive Study of Human Lymph Nodes

Abstract

All the lymph nodes observed were typically bean shaped irrespective of their age or sex. The cervical lymph nodes were the largest of all the four groups in size. The mean maximum short axis axial diameter was 7.19mm (Range 5.67mm - 8.12mm). The mesentericl lymph nodes were the smallest of all the four groups in size. The mean maximum short axis axial diameter was 3.89mm (Range 2.7mm -6.lmm). The lymph nodes showed well defined deep cortical regions often containing large lymphoblasts and prominent endothelial cells in small blood vessels. The thickness of the deep cortex was however reduced when compared to its foetal counterpart. The mean thickness of the deep cortical region was 423 microns. To reconfirm the age related involution of the paracortical region, the mesenteric lymph nodes were observed. In sharp· distinction, axillary lymph nodes showed fewer germinal centres which were relatively smaller in size.Mean actual diameter of the germinal centre was77 microns also had had fewer and smaller germinal centres. Mean actual diameter of the germinal centre was 68 microns.