Figure 10­5
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In the cortex of lymph nodes are nodular aggregations of lymphoid tissue. The outer border, or cap, of the lymph
Holdings,
nodule (arrow) consists of densely packed lymphocytes and plasma cells. The more lightly stained central area is the
germinal center. In the germinal centers, lymphocytic and plasmacytic maturations occur. The presence of lympho-
blasts that are larger than mature lymphocytes and plasma cells contribute to the reduction in stain density in the
LLC.
germinal center.
Not
From the above description, it is obvious that a lymph nodule possessing a germinal center is responding to antigenic
to
stimulation. Its response is part of the humoral mechanism of immunity in which B-lymphocytes differentiate into
be
redistributed
plasma cells.
In the lymph node and elsewhere, lymph nodules are often given the term lymph follicles.
or
modified
in
any
way
without
permission.
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