What is a mediastinal lymph node?

A mediastinal lymph node is a lymph node located in the mediastinum, the central compartment of the thoracic cavity between the lungs. These lymph nodes play a crucial role in the immune system, filtering lymphatic fluid and helping to fight infections and diseases, including cancer. They are often examined in medical diagnostics, particularly in conditions like lung cancer or infections, as they can indicate the spread of disease. Enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes may require further investigation through imaging or biopsy.