Bronchomediastinal lymph trunk

Bronchomediastinal lymph trunk is a part of the lymphatic system that drains lymph from the thoracic cavity, mediastinum, and the lung. The term "bronchomediastinal" is derived from "broncho" referring to the bronchus, and "mediastinal" referring to the mediastinum.

Anatomy

The bronchomediastinal lymph trunks are formed by the confluence of lymphatic vessels from the parasternal lymph nodes, tracheobronchial lymph nodes, and other lymph nodes located in the thoracic cavity. They are located on either side of the mediastinum, and they drain lymph into the venous system via the subclavian vein.

Function

The primary function of the bronchomediastinal lymph trunks is to transport lymph from the thoracic cavity, mediastinum, and the lung to the venous system. This helps in maintaining the fluid balance in the body and also plays a crucial role in the body's immune system by transporting white blood cells and foreign particles to the lymph nodes where they are filtered out.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or diseases of the bronchomediastinal lymph trunks can lead to various medical conditions. For instance, blockage or damage to these trunks can result in lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling due to the accumulation of lymph. They can also be involved in the spread of certain types of cancer, such as lung cancer and breast cancer, through the lymphatic system.

See also

• Lymphatic system
• Lymph node
• Lymphedema
• Lung cancer
• Breast cancer

References

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