Body Systems Lymphatic

Function A network of vessels, nodes and organs which collect interstitial fluid lost by the blood and returns it back to circulatory system. (we loose more than 3 liters a day) One Way System Filters bacteria and microorganisms Help maintain movement of nutrients and salts through tissues Absorb fat and fat-soluble vitamins from small intestines Helps to produce and transports white blood cells

Contributing Organs (Structures dedicated to the production and circulation of lymphocytes, WBC) Spleen- Synthesis antibodies and removes bacteria. Makes and holds RBC and recycles iron. (Can be considered like a large lymph node) Thymus-Produce T cells (for the immune system) Bone Marrow –produces white blood cells

Movement Lymph is moved through vessels by contractions of skeletal muscles and pressure gradient Vessels have one way valves that prevent back flow Lymph returns to the circulatory system through the superior Vena Cava

Diseases Lymphadema- Swelling of the lymph nodes because accumulation of fluid, caused by damage or malformation to the nodes Lymphoma- a cancer that originates in the lymph nodes