L10 - Lymphatic System

Lymphatic System

Network returning tissue fluid to circulation.

Lymph

Fluid similar to plasma, contains lymphocytes.

Chyle

Lymph from the gastrointestinal tract.

Functions of Lymphatic System

Returns tissue fluid, filters material, produces antibodies.

Lymph Capillaries

Small vessels collecting interstitial fluid.

Lymph Vessels

Transport lymph towards larger ducts.

Right Lymphatic Duct

Drains lymph from right thoracic limb and head.

Thoracic Duct

Main duct returning lymph to venous system.

Cisterna Chyli

Lymph channel associated with abdominal aorta.

Lymph Nodes

Filter lymph and produce immune responses.

Spleen

Largest lymphoid organ, stores blood, removes old RBCs.

Thymus

Produces T-cells, prominent in young animals.

Tonsils

Lymphoid tissue preventing infection spread.

Gut Associated Lymph Tissue (GALT)

Lymphoid tissue in intestinal mucosa.

Peyer's Patches

Lymphoid tissue in intestinal wall combating antigens.

Lymph Node Anatomy

Bean-shaped, contains cortex and medulla.

Lymph Formation

Fluid from capillaries accumulates in tissues.

Interstitial Fluid

Fluid between cells, excess drained by lymphatics.

Lymphatic Valves

Prevent backflow in lymphatic vessels.

Unidirectional Flow

Lymph moves only towards the heart.

Splenectomy

Surgical removal of the spleen.

Lymphocyte Production

Lymphocytes produced in lymph nodes and thymus.

Major Lymph Nodes

Include parotid, mandibular, axillary, and inguinal.