The lymphatic system, as an important part of the body's immune system, silently plays a defensive role in our body. However, when there are abnormal changes in the lymph nodes, it can indicate serious health problems, especially those that are at risk of becoming cancerous, and we need to be very vigilant.
1. Morphology and function of normal lymph nodes
Normal lymph nodes are usually bean-shaped, less than 0.5 centimeters in size, soft, well-moot, and generally not easily palpable. They are found throughout the body, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and other parts, and are responsible for filtering lymphatic fluid, removing harmful substances such as bacteria and viruses, and are also the "home" of immune cells, which play a key role in the body's fight against infection and disease.
2. Characteristics of dangerous lymph nodes
1. Significant swelling
When the lymph nodes are swollen enough to be easily palpable or even visible to the naked eye, it is a cause for concern. In particular, swollen lymph nodes that continue to enlarge and have no significant pain are more likely to be a sign of cancer. For example, a hard lump in the neck, collarbone, or armpit may be due to lymphoma metastases.
2. Firm texture
Cancerous lymph nodes are usually hard. This hard texture may be caused by cancer cells proliferating in the lymph nodes, destroying normal tissue structures.
3. Fixed inactivity
If the lymph nodes become immobile and stick to the surrounding tissues, it is dangerous. This could mean that the cancer cells have invaded the surrounding tissues and organs, making the disease more severe.
4. No tenderness
Swollen lymph nodes, usually caused by infection, are usually accompanied by pain or tenderness. Cancerous lymph nodes are often painless because cancer progresses relatively slowly and does not cause an acute inflammatory response like an infection.
3. Possible cancer
1. Unexplained swollen lymph nodes
If there is no obvious cause of infection, inflammation, etc., but lymphadenopathy occurs, especially if multiple lymph nodes are swollen at the same time, the possibility of cancer should be highly suspected.
2. Swollen lymph nodes with other symptoms
If the lymph nodes are swollen and accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever, night sweats, weight loss, fatigue, or abnormal manifestations such as itchy skin, rash, and jaundice, it may also be a sign of cancer.
Understanding the characteristics of the most dangerous lymph nodes is essential for us to detect cancer in time and strive for early treatment. In daily life, we should pay attention to the changes in our body, especially the condition of the lymph nodes, and once we find abnormalities, we should seek medical attention in time and do not delay the condition.