This second volume reports on the reaction patterns of lymph nodes in
neoplastic and immunodeficient diseases. Based on the contents of volume
1, it presents a detailed survey of lymph node structures and their
cellular components under these conditions. The patterns of nodal
reactions to the development and spread of cancer have recently been
investigated and discussed by several authors. Here, the immediate
interactions between tumor tissue and the regional nodes have been
assessed in experimental models and in human material. Using modern
morphological methods such as im- munohistochemistry on the light and
electron microscopic level, new insights have been gained into the
stepwise process of lymphogenous metastasis. Macrophages/reticulum cells
were found to playa signifi- cant role in this process, which is duly
emphasized. Based on appro- priate animal models, one chapter focuses on
various subtypes of these cellular elements and their role in the two
separate phases of tumor spread and the development of true metastases.
The induction of fibronectin in lymph nodes is effected by tumor cells
forming a special part of the extracellular matrix. The multifunctional
fibronec- tin molecule serves as a mediator between tumor cells and
fibroblasts, furthering the formation of tumor stroma. This volume also
contains a comprehensive survey of primary im- munodeficiency syndromes
and their nodal manifestations, reference being made to the most recent
immunological knowledge.