lymph gland

A small bean-shaped structure that is part of the body’s immune system. Lymph glands filter substances that travel through the lymphatic fluid, and they contain lymphocytes (white blood cells) that help the body fight infection and disease. There are hundreds of lymph glands found throughout the body. They are connected to one another by lymph vessels. Clusters of lymph glands are found in the neck, axilla (underarm), chest, abdomen, and groin. For example, there are about 20-40 lymph glands in the axilla. Also called lymph node.