Chapter 16: Lymphatics

The 3 major functions of the lymphatic system is:

Fluid balance, Fat absorption, Immune defense

Lymphatic capillaries

the smallest vessels in the lymphatic system

Lymph

a clear, colorless fluid that originates from interstitial fluid and circulates through the lymphatic system

Function of Lymphatic capillaries

absorb excess interstitial fluid from tissues and transport it as lymph into larger lymphatic vessels. They also collect proteins, pathogens, and waste

Lymph node

a small, bean-shaped structure that filters lymph and traps pathogens, cancer cells, and debris. It contains immune cells (like lymphocytes and macrophages) that help detect and destroy harmful substances

Lymphatic duct

are large vessels that drain lymph into the bloodstream at the subclavian veins

Right Lymphatic duct

drains lymph from the right upper limb, right side of the head and neck, and right side of the thorax It empties into the right subclavian vein

Thoracic duct

the largest lymphatic vessel. It drains lymph from the entire body except the right upper quadrant, and empties into the left subclavian vein

The following are considered lymphatic organs

• Red bone marrow

• Thymus

The smallest lymphatic organ is the

peyers patches

Tonsils are located in the

Pharynx (Throat) this works to trap bacteria coming in with food or air.

Thymus gland

Located in the mediastinum, this releases hormone that matures the white blood cell and the T cell.

Spleen

The largest lymphatic organ in the body, located in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen. This removes pathogens in the body through WBC and destroys old RBC

Peyers patches

Small nodules of lymphatic tissue, they function to prevent bacteria from penetrating the wall of the digestive tract