Senile changes in human lymph nodes

BACKGROUND: The degenerative process of lymph nodes is poorly documented. METHODS: 161 lymph nodes of seven fresh and one embalmed human cadavers in the head and neck were studied. We used 6% hydrogen peroxide, lead oxide injectant, and radiographs to demonstrate lymphatic vessels, and found both solidified and transparent lymph nodes. They were removed, fixed in 10% formalin and sent for histopathology cross section. RESULTS: Thirty-eight solidified and 123 transparent lymph nodes were found. A series of histopathological sections show the degenerative process is variable and continuous. Senile involution affects all elements of the lymph node including the cortex, the medulla, and the architecture. CONCLUSION: This study provides actual anatomical and histopathological images of lymph nodes in different degenerative stages in the head and neck region. It may help explain some clinical conditions in the elderly, especially their diminished immunological response to infection and cancer metastasis.