Lymphatic System

Study Notes

The lymphatic system is an important part of the body's immune system and maintains fluid levels in the body.
It absorbs fats in the digestive system and plays a crucial role in preventing infections.

The lymphatic system transports lymphatic fluid, a colorless, watery fluid, to the blood vessels and returns it to the tissues via the lymph nodes.
About 20 liters of plasma flow through the blood vessels to the body's tissues, and 17 liters return to the blood veins, leaving 3 liters as lymphatic fluid.

Maintains the balance of fluids in the body by collecting excess fluids from the tissues and returning them to the bloodstream.
Absorbs fats and proteins from the intestine and transports them to the bloodstream.
Prevents infections and removes excess fluids in the intestine.
Protects the body from infection by releasing lymphocytes (white blood cells) as part of the defense and protection of the body.
Fights cancer cells.

Lymphatic vessels: found in all parts of the body, responsible for absorbing fluids, and contain valves that prevent the return of lymphatic fluid.
Lymph nodes: approximately 600 in the body, found in areas such as the armpit, groin, and neck, responsible for defending the body through manufacturing and storing lymphocytes.
Spleen: the largest lymphatic organ, located in the upper left part of the abdomen, responsible for purifying and storing blood, making white blood cells, and destroying old or damaged red blood cells.

A defect in the lymphatic system prevents it from properly draining fluids, leading to Edema and potentially lymphedema.
The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in fighting infections and removing excess fluids in the intestine.