Usually performed for both diagnosis and treatment of premalignant cervical problems. A nonspecific term for an abnormal area. These lymphatic vessels drain into regional centers where there are clusters of lymph nodes that strain the lymphatic fluid. The fluid is eventually returned to the blood system. The lymphatic system is a major part of the immune system and is responsible for the initial response to combat infections.
Cancer can spread by way of the lymphatic system.
Success or failure of treatment often depends on whether the regional lymph nodes are involved with the cancer. A major category of white blood cell that initiates the immune response. Collections of lymphocytes are organized into lymph nodes. When stimulated by an antigen the lymphocyte produces a variety of chemicals called lymphokines that perform immune response functions. MASS A tumor.