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Lymphatiic System

Lymphatic system of human body

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Warisha Ijaz
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4 views

Lymphatiic System

Lymphatic system of human body

Uploaded by

Warisha Ijaz
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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lymphatic system

The lymphatic system is part of the circulatory system and an important part of the immune system,
comprising a network of lymphatic vessels that carry a clear fluid called lymph (from Latin,
lympha meaning “water”) directionally towards the heart.
Components of Lymphatic System:
1. Lymphatic Vessels
2. Lymph
3. Lymph Nodes
4. Lymphoid Organs
5. Lymphatic Tissues
➢ Primary Lymph Organs:
1. Bone Marrow: Produces immune cells (B-cells, T-cells, natural killer cells)
2. Thymus: Maturation site for T-cells
3. Spleen: Filters blood, stores immune cells (monocytes, macrophages)
➢ Secondary Lymph Organs:
1. Lymph Nodes: Filter lymph fluid, activate immune cells.
2. Tonsils: Trap pathogens, activate immune cells.
3. Adenoids: Filter air, activate immune cells.

Lymph: Lymph is a clear watery fluid that circulates through the lymphatic vessels. Once the
interstitial fluid drains into the lymphatic vessels, it is called lymph.
Composition of Lymph:
1. Water (95-96%)
2. Solids (5%)
Organic Substances: Proteins, Urea, Carbohydrates (e.g. Glucose), Lipids (lipoprotein), Amino
acids
Inorganic substances: Na+, Ca2+, K+ (less than plasma), chlorides and bicarbonates (higher than
Plasma)
Formation of Lymph:
Lymph formation occurs through a multi-step process. It begins with the formation of interstitial
fluid, which is created when blood vessels release fluid, proteins, and waste into the interstitial
spaces surrounding cells. This fluid bathes cells, providing nutrients and removing waste. Next,
lymphatic capillaries with one-way valves absorb interstitial fluid, allowing it to enter the
lymphatic system. The absorbed fluid then mixes with proteins, waste, immune cells, and fats to
form lymph fluid. As lymph fluid forms, it carries proteins like albumin and globulins, waste
products like urea and creatinine, immune cells such as lymphocytes and macrophages, and fats in
the form of chylomicrons.
Rate of Lymph flow:
Total lymph flow: 1-2 liters/hour (approximately 20-40 mL/min)
Thoracic duct flow: 0.5-1.5 liters/hour (approximately 10-30 mL/min)
Right lymphatic duct flow: 0.2-0.5 liters/hour (approximately 5-15 mL/min)
CIRCULATION OF LYMPH
The transportation and circulation of lymph occur through a complex network of lymphatic
vessels, organs, and nodes. Lymphatic capillaries, with high permeability, absorb interstitial fluid,
proteins, and waste products from tissues. This fluid then enters lymphatic vessels, which converge
to form larger collecting vessels and trunks. Valves within these vessels ensure unidirectional flow
towards the heart. Lymph passes through lymph nodes, where immune cells filter and cleanse the
fluid, activating immune responses. The lymphatic system has no central pump, relying instead on
skeletal muscle contractions, respiratory movements, and blood pressure to propel lymph forward.
Specialized lymphatic capillaries, called lacteals, in the small intestine absorb dietary fats,
transforming lymph into chyle. Chyle then merges with lymph from other regions, draining into
the thoracic duct (left side) and right lymphatic duct (right side). These ducts empty into the venous
bloodstream at the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins. Ultimately, lymph is
returned to the circulatory system, maintaining fluid balance and supporting immune function.
Functions:
1. Fluid Homeostasis: Regulates fluid balance by draining excess interstitial fluid and
returning it to the bloodstream.
2. Immunological Defense: Defends against infections and diseases by filtering lymph fluid,
activating immune cells (e.g., T-cells, B-cells), and producing antibodies.
3. Waste Elimination: Removes waste products, toxins, and excess substances (e.g.,
proteins, cellular debris) from the body.
4. Lipid Transport: Transports dietary triglycerides from the digestive system to the
bloodstream as chylomicrons.
5. Protein Transport: Transports proteins (e.g., antibodies, enzymes, hormones) throughout
the body.
6. Blood Pressure Regulation: Contributes to blood pressure control by modulating fluid
balance and vascular tone.
7. Detoxification: Removes toxins, xenobiotics, and foreign substances from the body.
8. Inflammation Modulation: Reduces inflammation by removing inflammatory mediators
(e.g., cytokines, chemokines) and promoting immune resolution.
9. Tissue Maintenance: Supports tissue repair and regeneration by providing immune cells,
growth factors, and nutrients.

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