Lymph

Lymphatic System

A network of vessels and organs that collect and transport extracellular fluid, defend against infection, and absorb fats from the digestive system.

Extracellular fluid

Fluid found outside the cells, which is collected by the lymphatic system and returned to the main circulation.

Infection defense

One of the functions of the lymphatic system, where it helps to defend the body against infections by filtering and trapping pathogens in the lymph nodes.

Lymph

Fluid found in the lymphatic vessels, characterized by its milky color and high fat concentration, which is formed from the extracellular fluid.

Formation of Lymph

The process by which extracellular fluid is collected by the lymphatic system, including the role of tonsils in mopping up extra fluid and bringing it to the lymph nodes.

Thymus Gland

An organ of the lymphatic system involved in the development and maturation of T-lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell.

Lymph Nodes

Small, bean-shaped organs filled with white blood cells and fluids, which filter and cleanse the lymph before returning it to the heart.

Spleen

An organ of the lymphatic system responsible for filtering the blood, removing old or damaged red blood cells, and producing certain types of white blood cells.

Bone Marrow

The soft, spongy tissue found inside bones, where the production of blood cells, including certain types of white blood cells, takes place.

Oedema

Swelling of tissues due to the accumulation of excess extracellular fluid, which should be returned to the blood by the lymphatic system to maintain proper fluid balance.

Bruises

An extreme form of extracellular fluid accumulation, where blood vessels are damaged, leading to the leakage of blood and fluid into the surrounding tissues.

Cleansing of lymph

The process by which the tonsils filter and remove pathogens and other foreign substances from the lymph before it is returned to the heart.