Disorders of the Lymph System

LYMPH SYSTEM
Provided by A.D.A.M.

Overview

Definition

A complex circulatory system composed of a network of organs, lymph nodes, lymph ducts, and lymph vessels that produce and transport lymph from tissues to the bloodstream. The lymphatic system is a major component of the body's immune system.

Information

Lymph is a clear-to-white fluid made of chyle (fluid from the intestines after digestion which contains proteins and fats), some red blood cells, and many white blood cells, especially lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are the cells that attack bacteria in the blood.

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped, soft nodules that are not usually visible or easily felt. They are located in clusters in various parts of the body, such as the neck, armpit, and groin. Lymph nodes produce lymphocytes, monocytes, and plasma cells. They also filter the lymph fluid and remove foreign material, such as bacteria and cancer cells. When bacteria are recognized in the lymph fluid, the lymph nodes enlarge as they produce and supply additional white blood cells to help fight infection.

The organs within the lymphatic system are the tonsils, adenoids, spleen, and thymus.

The lymphatic system filters fluid from around cells. It is an important part of the immune system. When people refer to swollen glands in the neck, they are usually referring to swollen lymph nodes. Common areas where lymph nodes can be easily felt, especially if they are enlarged, are: the groin, armpits (axilla), abovethe clavicle (supraclavicular), in the neck (cervical), and the back of the head just above hairline (occipital).

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LYMPHATIC SYSTEM AND IMMUNITY

http://www.emc.maricopa.edu/faculty/farabee/BIOBK/BioBookIMMUN.html

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Lymphoma Information Network

The Lymphatic System

http://www.lymphomainfo.net/lymphoma/lymphsys.html

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The Peripheral Lymph System

Columbia University

*Outstanding Article*

http://cpmcnet.columbia.edu/student/ssn/histology/lymph_slides.pdf

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The Lymphatic System

Lymphoid Organs

http://library.thinkquest.org/3007/lymphatic.html

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Lymph System - Tonsils and Adenoids

http://www.health-first.org/health_info/your_health_first/kids/tonsils_adenoids.cfm

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Spleen and Lymphatic System

http://kidshealth.org/parent/general/body_basics/spleen_lymphatic.html

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