The lymphatic system
Neck masses in children often involve the lymphatic system, which is part of
the immune system and functions to fight disease and infections.
The lymphatic system goes through many changes throughout a child's growth
and development. Before birth, a fetus relies on the mother's immune system for
protection from infections. At birth, a newborn's lymphatic system begins to
respond to the frequent exposure to new antigens (organisms and diseases).
Lymphatic tissue grows steadily until puberty, when growth slows.
The lymphatic system includes the following:
- Lymph: fluid containing lymphocyte cells.
- Lymph vessels: thin tubes that carry lymph fluid throughout the body.
- Lymphocytes: white blood cells that fight infection and disease.
- Lymph nodes: bean-shaped organs, found in the underarm, groin, neck,
chest, and abdomen, that act as filters for the lymph fluid as it circulates
through the body.
Children are constantly fighting off new germs and infections and their
lymphatic system quickly responds to these antigens. Because of this response,
it is quite common for children to have slightly enlarged lymph nodes in certain
areas of the body some of the time. However, changes in the lymph nodes can also
indicate certain conditions or diseases that need special treatment. Always
consult your child's physician for questions or concerns about any mass you
notice in your child.