Smooth muscle in lymph node capsule and trabeculae.

This study focuses on the confusion in existing literature concerning the presence of smooth muscle in the capsule and trabeculae of lymph nodes. Human and bovine nodes from several anatomical areas and several individuals of each species were examined by conventional light, electron and fluorescence microscopy. Smooth muscle cells, independent of blood vessels, were demonstrated in the trabeculae and capsules of lymph nodes of both species examined by all three techniques. The need for further study on the function of these cells is indicated.