2 IMMUNITY IN HEALTH 



into one class of ''Subepithelial Lymphatic Glands"*; 

 that they constitute important antibacterial weapons 

 and share a great and valuable function in the pre- 

 servation of health (Digby, 1911). Evidence wiH be 

 adduced to show that these subepithelial lymphatic 

 glands are not so much local defences to strengthen 

 weak spots as organs for the development of general 

 systemic immunity. 



These considerations do not involve an attack upon 

 surgery for the removal of some of the organs of the 

 subepithelial lymphatic system. The recognition of 

 their utility does not, of course, imply their inviolability 

 when they unhappily become the base or focus of 

 disease. The eye is useful, yet at times it may be 

 necessary to sacrifice even a partially functioning eye 

 for the general health of its owner. 



* Doubts may arise as to the propriety of using the word " glands " 

 in this connection. The word *' organs " might indeed be substi- 

 tuted. But " glands " has long been employed for other lymphoid 

 collections and is retained in the B.N. A. terminology. It, therefore, 

 seems well to write " Lymphatic Glands " and to describe these as 

 falling into two classes: — 



1. Interstitial, e.g. : — 



Axillary, 

 Bronchial, 

 Cervical, 

 Aortic, etc. 



2. SubepitheliaU e-g- : — 



Solitary nodules. 

 Aggregated nodules. 

 Vermiform process, 

 Faucial tonsil, etc. 



