 They return excess tissue fluids to the bloodstreams.  They also return leaked proteins to the blood.  And they absorb fat from the intestine to the blood.  Is basically considered the 2nd circulatory system.  Contain white blood cells to defend against germs and infections.

 Lymphocytes- are the main warriors of the immune system and they arise in the red bone marrow.  T cells and B cells protect against antigen.  Activated T cells manage immune response & some attack & and destroy infected cells.  B cells- protect the body by producing plasma cells which are daughter cells that secrete antibodies into the blood.  Lymphoid macrophages also play a huge role in protection by phagocytizing foreign substance & help activate T-cells.

 This is the most important component of the immune system 1) because it houses & provides a proliferation site for lymphocytes and 2) furnishes an ideal surveillance vantage point for lymphocytes and macrophages.  Lymphoid tissues re composed of loose connection tissue called reticular connective tissue called reticular connective tissue, which dominates all the lymphoid organs except thymus.

 Lymphedema  Lymphadenitis  Lymphangitis

 Most common lymphatic disorder is lymphedema which happen because of an accumulation of lymphatic fluids in the interstitional.  This results in swelling in the arms, legs and other body parts.  It’s a very painful infection deep in the skin. If its not treated then it becomes fibrotic with loss of normal structure, function and motion.  Treatments: Range of motion excerise, Manual Lymph Drainage(MLD).

 Infection of the lymph node. Common complication of the bacterial infections.  Causes: occurs when glands become enlarged by inflammation, usually in response to bacteria, viruses, etc.  Symptoms: swollen, hard or tender lymph node. Red tender skin under Lymph node.  Treatments: antibiotics, pain killers to control pain, and surgery may be needed.

 Is and infection of the lymph vessel.  Symptoms: red streaks from infected area to the armpit or groin, chills, head aches, muscle aches, loss of appetite, etc.  Causes: results from an acute streptococcal infection in the skin.  Treatments: antibiotics to treat any underlying infections, anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and swelling.

 Lymphadenopathy:  Lymph(o): lymph aden(o): gland pathy: disorder.  Lymphangitis:  Lymph(o): Lymphangi(o): Blood vessel itis: inflammation  Lymphoma  Lymph(o): lymph oma: tumor  Lymphangiogram  Lymph(o): Lymph angi(o): blood vessel gram: record or picture