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The lymphatic system is a system of vessels and nodes that connect together to return excess tissue fluids to the blood. It is a one-way system, from the body tissues toward the heart. The fluid in the system is called "lymph." This system also includes many small organ-like regions called lymph nodes, and involves other body organs, particularly the thymus and spleen. There are cells that travel within the lymphatic system, but these are cells you are already familiar with-- white blood cells. These cells help to ensure the defense of our body tissues against infection. You will re-visit these cells in the "immune" section of this unit. The lymphatic system is highly involved in protecting our bodies against infection, as well providing a fluid-recovery system. But only by continuing on through this unit will you understand how it can accomplish these diverse tasks. |
© 2011 STCC Foundation Press |
