Final answer:
The cervical lymph nodes are located in the neck region, associated with the cervical vertebrae. They serve as filters in the lymphatic system, removing pathogens from lymph via structures like the subcapsular sinus before lymph leaves through the efferent lymphatic vessels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Location of the Cervical Lymph Nodes
The cervical lymph nodes are situated in the neck region. They are found along the path of the larger lymph vessels and are closely associated with the cervical vertebrae, which are numbered C1-C7. These lymph nodes are an essential part of the lymphatic system, which acts as a filter to remove pathogens from the lymph before it reaches the bloodstream. Lymph enters the lymph node via the subcapsular sinus, containing dendritic cells, macrophages, and reticular fibers, before flowing through the lymph node's cortex and medulla. This process helps to ensure that any pathogens are destroyed by lymphocytes, which include rapidly dividing B cells and a layer of T cells and other accessory cells. The lymph node serves this filtering function as lymph continues through it, eventually leaving the node by the efferent lymphatic vessels.