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Lymphoid nodules of the vermiform process
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
Lymphoid nodules of the appendix (noduli lymphoidei appendicis vermiformis) during their period of maximum development (after birth and up to 16-17 years) are located in the mucous membrane and in the submucosa along the entire length of this organ - from its base (near the cecum) to the apex. The total number of lymphoid nodules in the wall of the appendix in children and adolescents reaches 600-800. Nodules are often located one above the other in 2-3 rows. The transverse dimensions of one nodule do not exceed 1.0-1.5 mm. Between the nodules are reticular and collagen fibers, as well as deep intestinal glands penetrating here.
[ Development and age-related characteristics of lymphoid nodules of the appendix
The formation of lymphoid nodules in the walls of the developing appendix occurs in the fetus in the 4th month. Nodules first appear in the mucous membrane, and then in the submucosa. In the 5th month of intrauterine life, the nodules are well formed and represent rounded accumulations of lymphoid tissue. Immediately before birth or soon after it, reproduction centers appear in the nodules. The transverse size of the nodules in a newborn is from 0.5 to 1.25 mm, and their number in the walls of the appendix reaches 150-200. In children over 10 years old, there are groups of fat cells in the submucosa of the appendix, the number of collagen and elastic fibers increases; reticular fibers become thicker. In the period from 16 to 18 years, the number of lymphoid nodules decreases and the mass of adipose tissue increases. The increase in fatty tissue in the walls of the appendix is especially noticeable at 20-30 years of age. In people over 50-60 years of age, the number of lymphoid nodules in the walls of the appendix decreases.
Vessels and nerves
Arterial vessels approach the lymphoid nodules from branches supplying the walls of the appendix (artery of the appendix), and nerves from the autonomic nerve plexuses. Venous blood from the lymphoid nodules flows into the vein of the appendix. Lymphatic vessels formed in the walls of the appendix are directed to the cecal and ileocolic lymph nodes.
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