The lymphatic system is an extensive and interconnected system of vessels, spaces, and nodes in the body which circulates lymph, a fluid made from protein and other fluids. Lymph is initially part of the blood, but as blood flows through the body, lymph slowly leaks out, taking hazardous substances with it and filtering these substances through the lymph nodes, which trap these substances. Over time, the lymph slowly works its way around the body, eventually re-entering the heart so that it can be circulated all over again.
Damage or interruption to this system can result in a range of medical conditions. You may be familiar with lymphedema, a condition in which lymph pools in the limbs because it cannot circulate. Lymphoma is also related to the lymphatic system, as the name implies, and elephantiasis is also linked with disruption to the lymphatic system. You may also notice that your lymph nodes become swollen when you are sick, because your body is isolating the agent responsible to help you get better.
Picture Of the Lymphatic System ( shown in green )
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