Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, tissues, and organs that helps transport excess fluid and waste materials from the body's interstitial spaces back to the bloodstream.
Key Concepts
- Lymph: A clear, colorless fluid that contains white blood cells and circulates through the lymphatic system.
- Lymph nodes: Small, bean-shaped structures that filter lymph and contain immune cells.
- Lymphatic vessels: Tubes that carry lymph from the body's tissues to the lymph nodes and back to the bloodstream.
- Spleen: A large organ that filters blood and contains immune cells.
- Thymus: A gland located in the chest that produces T cells (a type of white blood cell) that help fight infection.
- Lacteals: Specialized lymphatic vessels in the small intestine that absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system.
Important Information
- The lymphatic system helps maintain fluid balance in the body, and also plays an important role in the immune system by filtering foreign substances and producing immune cells.
- Lymph nodes are typically located in groups, such as in the neck, armpits, and groin, and are often palpable when they become swollen due to infection or disease.
- The thymus is most active in childhood and adolescence, and its function declines with age.
- The spleen can be removed surgically if necessary, but it plays an important role in fighting certain infections and in removing old or damaged red blood cells from the bloodstream.
Takeaways
- The lymphatic system is a vital part of the body's immune and circulatory systems.
- Lymph nodes help filter out harmful substances, while lymphatic vessels transport lymph throughout the body.
- The spleen and thymus are other key organs involved in fighting infection and maintaining immune function.
- Swollen lymph nodes can indicate infection or disease, and should be checked by a healthcare provider if persistent.