In stage iii colon cancer what is the significance of spread to 2 of 17 lymph nodes? what are lymph nodes?

Significant: Cancers spread by either blood vessels or lymphatic pathways. Lymph nodes are collections of tissue along the lymphatic pathways, and are common places for tumor particles to start to grow. Your oncologist can discuss it in detail as to other measures you need to take, such as chemotherapy, radiation, more surgery, or some combination of all of the above.

Significant: Lymph nodes are stations along vessels draining tissue fluid to the heart. When cancers spread outside tissue of origin, they often go first to local draining nodes. If the margins are negative, chemo may lead to a good response.

Higer stage: Colon cancer with lymph node involvement is considered a stage iii disease. After surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy (for 6 months) is recommended for stage iii colon cancer in most patients. Lymph nodes (or "lymph glands") are part of the lymphatic system that drain fluid/debris back to the blood (vasular system). Lymph nodes may enlarge with infection or cancer.