Lymph (from Latin lympha 'water') [1] is the fluid that flows through the lymphatic system, a system composed of lymph vessels (channels) and intervening lymph nodes whose function, like the venous system, is to return fluid from the tissues to be recirculated.
Your lymph nodes are vital filters in your immune system. Edward Chang, M.D., explains their location, function, what causes them to swell and their role in fighting infection and detecting cancer.
The lymph system is a network of organs, lymph nodes, lymph ducts, and lymph vessels that make and move lymph from tissues to the bloodstream. The lymph system is a major part of the body's immune system.
In addition to lymph, lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, and collecting ducts, many organs are involved in the lymphatic system. Primary lymphatic organs produce immune cells called lymphocytes, while secondary lymphatic organs fight off germs and harmful substances.
Lymph nodes are tiny bean-shaped organs that serve as collection centers for lymph. All lymph passes through lymph nodes placed throughout the body, which filter damaged cells, cancer cells, and foreign particles out of the lymph.
Lymph nodes function to remove debris and pathogens from the lymph, and are thus sometimes referred to as the “filters of the lymph” (Figure 21.8). Any bacteria that infect the interstitial fluid are taken up by the lymphatic capillaries and transported to a regional lymph node.
Lymph fluid is normally absorbed from body tissues and moves through a series of vessels and lymph nodes. As the fluid passes through the nodes, it is purified of harmful bacteria and viruses.
Swollen supraclavicular lymph nodes may occur as a reaction to infection or due to metastatic cancer. This type of swelling typically occurs just above a person’s collarbone. Lymph nodes are part of ...