ANAT 216 Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Internal Jugular Vein, Subclavian Vein, Thoracic Duct

• School: Queen's University
• Department: Anatomy and Cell Biology
• Course: ANAT 216
• Professor: Leslie W Mac Kenzie

Document Summary

The lymphatic 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. Structural components: lymphatic vessels lymph lymphoid cells, tissues, organs. Functions: transports lymph (maintains normal blood volume) produces, maintains and distributes lymphocytes provides alternate route for hormones, nutrients, and waste products. It is then transported through lymph vessels to lymph nodes before emptying ultimately into the right or the left subclavian vein, where it mixes back with blood: it contains white blood cells. Lymph returns proteins and excess interstitial fluid to the bloodstream. Lymph may pick up bacteria and bring them to lymph nodes where they are destroyed. Metastatic cancer cells can also be transported via lymph. Lymph also transports fats from the digestive system. Tiny, thin-walled vessels located in the spaces between cells, which serve to drain and process extra-cellular fluid.