Lymph vessels
Lymph Vessels
Lymph vessels or lymphatic vessels (pronunciation: /ˈlɪmf ˈvɛsəlz/) are thin-walled, valved structures that carry lymph, a fluid that is crucial to the body's immune system. They form a major part of the lymphatic system, which also includes lymph nodes and lymphoid organs.
Etymology
The term "lymph" comes from the Latin word lympha, which means "connected to water", while "vessel" originates from the Old French vessel, meaning "container or receptacle".
Function
Lymph vessels are responsible for the absorption and transport of excess fluid, proteins, and waste products from the body's tissues. They also play a significant role in the body's immune response, as they transport white blood cells and antigens to the lymph nodes where they are processed and filtered.
Structure
Lymph vessels are similar to blood vessels, but they have thinner walls and larger diameters. They are lined with endothelial cells and have a series of one-way valves that prevent the backflow of lymph. Lymph vessels range in size from tiny lymph capillaries that absorb the lymph, to larger vessels that transport it, and finally to the lymph ducts that return the lymph to the bloodstream.
Related Terms
- Lymph: The clear fluid that travels through the lymphatic system and carries cells that help fight infections and diseases.
- Lymphatic system: The network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials.
- Lymph nodes: Small, bean-shaped structures that produce and store cells that fight infection and disease.
- Lymphoid organs: Organs in the lymphatic system such as the thymus, spleen, and tonsils.
- White blood cells: Cells of the immune system that are involved in protecting the body against both infectious disease and foreign invaders.
- Antigens: Substances that can induce an immune response.
- Endothelial cells: Cells that line the interior surface of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels.
- Lymph capillaries: Small, thin-walled vessels located in the spaces between cells which serve to drain and process extracellular fluid.
- Lymph ducts: The largest vessels in the lymphatic system, they transport lymph back into the bloodstream.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lymph vessels
- Wikipedia's article - Lymph vessels
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