1. LYMPHATIC SYSTEM Period 3
Nicole C., Grant C., Gia S. and Brett C.

2. Lymphatic System Definition
The lymphatic system is part of the circulatory system and a vital part of the immune system. It comprises a network of lymphatic vessels that carry a clear fluid called lymph (from Latin, lympha meaning water) directionally towards the heart.

3. Main Functions
Drains excess fluids and proteins from your body and returns them to your bloodstream
Responsible for the removal of [interstitial fluid] from tissues
Absorbs and transports fatty acids and fats as [chyle] from the digestive system
Transports white blood cells to and from the lymph nodes into the bones
Roughly 600 lymph nodes in the body
Removes waste products produced by cells
Fights infections

4. Main Organs
The spleen- Largest organ in the lymphatic system. Located in the upper left part of the abdomen under the ribcage. It protects the body by clearing worn- out red blood cells and other foreign bodies from the bloodstream to help fight off infection.
The tonsils- Located at the rear of the throat and nasal cavity. Tonsils are masses of lymphoid tissue and since they are a part of the immune system, they help fight infections.
The appendix- Located in the lower-right area of the abdomen. It is a pouch of lymphatic tissue attached to the large intestine. It does not appear to have much lymphatic function in humans minus the ability to release some mucus into the large intestine.

5. Main Organs
The lymph nodes- Located in tonsils, adenoids, armpits, neck, groin and mediastinum. Produce lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, and contain macrophages, which are cells that digest cellular debris, pathogens and other unknown substances.
The lymph vessels- Walled, valved structures that carry lymph, a colorless fluid that carries white blood cells, around the whole body
The thymus- Located in thoracic cavity right below the neck. It is made up of two lobes of lymphoid tissue. Each lobe has a medulla surrounded by a cortex.

6. How it works with other systems
The lymphatic system consists of organs, ducts, and nodes. It transports a watery clear fluid called lymph. This fluid distributes immune cells and other factors throughout the body. It also interacts with the blood circulatory system to drain fluid from cells and tissues.

7. Disorders/Diseases that can affect it
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Cancer that starts in the lymphocytes
Mononucleosis (AKA Mono or the kissing disease)
Abnormally high proportion of monocytes in the blood
Lymphedema
A lymphatic obstruction that causes swelling in an arm or leg.
Lymphadenitis
Infection of the lymph nodes caused by a virus, bacteria, or fungi.