Caracterización macroscópica de los nódulos linfáticos superficiales en fetos de alpaca (Vicugna pacos)

The aim of this study was to examine the morphometric characteristics of superficial lymph nodes in alpaca foetuses (Vicugna pacos) during gestation. Eighteen fetuses were collected from the municipal slaughterhouse in Huancavelica, Peru, fixed in 10% formalin solution, and subsequently classified into three groups according to gestational age estimated by biparietal diameter (BPD). The mandibular, superficial cervical, axillary, popliteal, and superficial inguinal lymph nodes were evaluated. The presence and anatomical location of each lymph node were visually verified, and its dimensions (length and width) and weight were recorded. The youngest foetus was 90 days of gestation. The lymph nodes exhibited an anatomical distribution and morphology similar to those described in other domestic species, with the particularity of displaying pseudo lobulations on their surface, especially evident in the mandibular and cervical nodes. The popliteal node showed the smallest dimensions, while the superficial inguinal node was the largest. The results showed bilateral symmetry in lymphatic development, as well as a positive and direct correlation between foetal weight and lymph node weight.