Celiac lymph nodes

The celiac lymph nodes (Nodi lymphoidei coeliaci) are located around the celiac artery near the aorta. They may be absent in carnivores and rabbits, and are merged with the cranial mesenteric lymph nodes in ruminants. They receive a variable proportion of the efferent vessels from the following groups (except in ruminants), as well as direct afferent vessels from the liver, stomach, spleen, and pancreas. In equids and pigs, they also contribute to the drainage of the diaphragm and the caudal part of the pleurae. Their efferent vessels help form the celiac lymphatic trunk or the visceral trunk, depending on the species.