Specialized cells of the hematopoietic system that have branch-like extensions. They are found throughout the lymphatic system, and in non-lymphoid tissues such as SKIN and the epithelia of the intestinal, respiratory, and reproductive tracts. They trap and process ANTIGENS, and present them to T-CELLS, thereby stimulating CELL-MEDIATED IMMUNITY. They are different from the non-hematopoietic FOLLICULAR DENDRITIC CELLS, which have a similar morphology and immune system function, but with respect to humoral immunity (ANTIBODY PRODUCTION).

ANTIGEN-PRESENTING CELLS of dendritic cell morphology found in the LYMPH NODES and other lymphoid tissues.

ANTIGEN-PRESENTING CELLS of dendritic cell morphology found in the afferent LYMPH and possessing veil-like processes. They represent an intermediate stage between LANGERHANS CELLS and interdigitating cells. (From Herbert et al, Dictionary of Immunology, 4th ed)