The Lymphatic Systems
By Lhenn on Apr 02, 2010 with Comments 0
The lymphatic system is a part of the immune system. It performs two important functions for the body – to return protein and tissue fluids to the blood. It is an important function of the lymph to return the plasma protein into the blood while it also removes bacteria and foreign particles from the tissues.
The lymphatic system consists of the lymph nodes and the lymphocytes. Foreign particles in the tissues are removed by the lymphatic vessels and are brought to the lymph nodes that drain the affected regions. If the particles stimulate the formation of antibodies, pain and tenderness in the nodes may initially be felt. The lymph nodes undergo considerable swelling while the antibody-forming cells are developing.
Lymphatic Vessels
The lymphatic vessels form a network of fluid-filled vessels, or tubes, that open into the blood stream. The fluid in the lymphatic vessels is called lymph. Lymph is the plasma outside the capillaries. It nourishes the body cell by carrying food and oxygen to cells not located near blood cells. It also carries wastes away from these cells. The lymph vessels collect lymph from the body and return it to the bloodstream.
Lymph Nodes
The lymph nodes are enlarged areas of lymph vessels. They filter bacteria from the lymph before it returns to the bloodstream. The lymph nodes produce white blood cells. They also kill bacteria. Lymph nodes are found at the back of the knees, in the groin regions, the armpits, and the thoracic region and lower abdomen.
Lymphocytes
The lymphocytes are special types of white blood cells found in the lymph nodes. They are also found in the lymph, the blood, the spleen, the thymus, and in the bone marrow. They are found all over the body and through the various tissues. They are very important in the immune response of the body against disease.
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