The lymphatic system removes excess fluid from tissues and filters pathogens. It also supports immune function by transporting lymph that contains white blood cells.

The thymus is a primary lymphoid organ where T cells mature. This maturation is essential for developing a functional immune response.

Lymph is the clear fluid that circulates within the lymphatic system and contains white blood cells. It plays a key role in filtering pathogens and maintaining fluid balance.

Lymph nodes are distributed throughout the body, with concentrations in areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin. They filter lymph and trap harmful substances to aid the immune response.

Lymph is a clear fluid that circulates in the lymphatic system and is rich in white blood cells. It is essential for immune surveillance and removing waste products from tissues.

Lymphatic vessels contain valves that allow lymph to flow in one direction only. This mechanism prevents the backflow of lymph and ensures efficient fluid movement.

The spleen filters blood, removing damaged or aged red blood cells and pathogens. It also plays a role in the immune response by helping to generate lymphocytes.

B cells are the lymphocytes responsible for producing antibodies, which are critical for the humoral immune response. Their activation leads to the production of specific antibodies against pathogens.

Lymph nodes filter lymphatic fluid, trapping pathogens and foreign particles. This allows immune cells within the nodes to identify and mount a response against invaders.

T cells mature in the thymus, which is key for developing the cellular immune response. Their maturation in the thymus ensures that they can properly recognize self from non-self.

Lymph is derived from blood plasma that escapes from capillaries into interstitial spaces. The lymphatic system collects this fluid, links it to the circulatory system, and returns it to the bloodstream.

Lymphocytes become activated in the lymph nodes when they encounter pathogens. Their activation triggers the cellular and humoral responses necessary to combat infections.

Lacteals are specialized lymphatic vessels located in the small intestine responsible for absorbing dietary fats. These fats are transported via the lymphatic system before entering the bloodstream.

Lymphatic vessels have a thinner wall structure compared to most blood vessels and include one-way valves to prevent backflow. This design is crucial for maintaining the proper flow of lymph throughout the body.

Secondary lymphoid organs, including lymph nodes and the spleen, are locations where lymphocytes encounter antigens and become activated. This activation is essential for initiating adaptive immune responses.

Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system cannot properly drain lymph fluid, resulting in its accumulation in tissues. This dysfunction may be caused by damage or obstruction of lymphatic vessels.

Lymph nodes are vital in cancer diagnosis because tumor cells can migrate through the lymphatic system to these nodes. Their analysis helps determine the extent of cancer spread in the body.

Chemokines are the signaling molecules that create gradients guiding lymphocyte migration. This directed movement is crucial for effective immune surveillance and response.

Lymphatic endothelial cells line the lymphatic vessels and regulate the movement of immune cells through the tissues. Their barrier function and role in cell trafficking are important for maintaining immune homeostasis.

Afferent lymphatic vessels carry lymph into the lymph node, bringing antigens and immune cells for processing. Efferent vessels then transport the filtered lymph out, playing a critical role in immune surveillance.