LYMPHATIC SYSTEM By: Samantha mohammed

WHAT MAKES UP THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM  Lymph nodes make up the lymphatic system. Primary function is to transport lymph, a clear, colorless fluid containing white blood cells that helps get rid of the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials.

DESCRIPTION OF THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM  It is a network of tissues and organs that primarily consist of lymph vessels, lymph nodes and lymph.  Its not like blood, which flows throughout the body in a continuous loop. Lymph flows in one direction upward toward the neck within its own system.  If bacteria is recognized in the lymph fluid, the lymph nodes make more infection fighting white blood cells, witch may cause swelling. The swelling nodes can be felt in the neck, groin and underarm.

PARTS OF THE SYSTEM  The system is made up of tonsils, adenoids, spleen and thymus.  The largest organ in the lymphatic system is the spleen. Its located above the kidney. People can live without a spleen. People lose this organ by, disease or injury.  The thymus stores immature lymphocytes and prepares them to become active T cells that are adult white cells. It is located in the chest just above the heart. T-cells also help destroy bacteria or cancerous cells.  Tonsils are large clusters of lymphatic cells found in the pharynx.