On the relevance of the greater omentum lymphoid tissue morphological and functional characteristics studying

Currently, for some branches of practical medicine (abdominal, thoracic, gynecological, reconstructive-plastic surgery, oncology), the study of the morphology, plasticity, reactive and adaptive functions of the greater omentum remains relevant. Since the greater omentum is a frequent site of metastases of various tumors, the study of its immune (lymphoid) structures is of particular relevance. The purpose of the study is a meta-analysis of modern scientific literature devoted to milky spots of the greater omentum, which are an important component of lymphoid tissue that participate in the intra-abdominal immune response. The materials and methods of the study included a systematic review of domestic and foreign scientific literature and analysis of the collected data. For the analysis, publications were selected that cover clinical observations, pathomorphological studies and data on the relationship of milky spots with various diseases. The review covers the anatomy, function of the greater omentum, morphology of the immune tissue of the greater omentum (lymphoid clusters - milky spots). Milky spots are located in the tissue of the greater omentum and perform important functions in the body's immune system. Studies show that these formations are actively involved in the immune response, providing protection against infections and inflammatory processes. The anatomy of milky spots includes a variety of cellular components, including lymphocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells that interact with each other, forming complex mechanisms of the immune response. Biological properties of the omentum include its ability to neovascularize, hemostasis, tissue healing and regeneration, as well as the function of an in vivo incubator for culturing cells and tissues. Some of these properties have long been noted in surgical practice and are used empirically in some therapeutic procedures. Morphological studies conducted on various models confirm the importance of milky spots in maintaining homeostasis and the development of pathogenesis of various diseases. Possible pathogenetic mechanisms that may influence the function of these lesions are discussed. This review highlights the importance of further research to fully understand the role of milky spots in immune activity and their clinical significance.