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'''Mediastinal lymph nodes''' are a group of [[lymph node]]s located in the [[mediastinum]], the central compartment of the [[thoracic cavity]]. These lymph nodes play a crucial role in the [[lymphatic system]], filtering [[lymph]] and aiding in the body's immune response. They are involved in the diagnosis and staging of various [[cancer]]s, particularly [[lung cancer]], [[lymphoma]], and other thoracic malignancies.

==Anatomy==
The mediastinal lymph nodes are divided into several groups based on their location in the mediastinum:
* '''Anterior mediastinal lymph nodes''' are found in the front of the mediastinum, near the [[thymus]].
* '''Posterior mediastinal lymph nodes''' are located behind the heart and in front of the [[vertebral column]].
* '''Superior mediastinal lymph nodes''' are situated in the upper part of the mediastinum, above the heart and between the lungs.
* '''Inferior mediastinal lymph nodes''' are found in the lower part of the mediastinum.

These nodes drain lymph from the thoracic organs, including the [[heart]], [[lungs]], and [[esophagus]].

==Function==
The primary function of the mediastinal lymph nodes is to filter lymph, a clear fluid that travels through the lymphatic system and carries cells that help fight infections and other diseases. These lymph nodes trap and destroy bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances that may be present in the lymph. They also play a vital role in the body's immune response, helping to recognize and fight infections and diseases.

==Clinical Significance==
###Cancer###
Mediastinal lymph nodes are often involved in the spread of cancer within the thoracic cavity. The presence of cancer cells in these lymph nodes can indicate the spread of [[lung cancer]], [[breast cancer]], [[esophageal cancer]], and [[lymphoma]]. The assessment of mediastinal lymph node involvement is crucial for the staging and treatment planning of these cancers.

###Infections###
Infections such as [[tuberculosis]] and certain fungal infections can also affect the mediastinal lymph nodes, leading to their enlargement.

###Diseases###
Conditions such as [[sarcoidosis]] and [[lymphadenopathy]] can cause enlargement of the mediastinal lymph nodes, which may be detected on imaging studies like [[CT scan]]s or [[MRI]]s.

==Diagnosis==
The evaluation of mediastinal lymph nodes typically involves imaging studies such as [[chest X-ray]], CT scan, MRI, and [[positron emission tomography]] (PET) scan. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to obtain a tissue sample for further analysis. Techniques such as [[endobronchial ultrasound]]-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) allow for minimally invasive sampling of these lymph nodes.

==Treatment==
Treatment of diseases involving the mediastinal lymph nodes depends on the underlying condition. For cancer, options may include [[surgery]], [[chemotherapy]], [[radiation therapy]], or a combination of these treatments. Infections may require antibiotics or antifungal medications. Other conditions like sarcoidosis might be managed with corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs.

[[Category:Human anatomy]]
[[Category:Lymphatic system]]
[[Category:Thoracic surgery]]
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Mediastinal lymph node - Revision history

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