How does the human lymphatic system work and what does it affect? Human physiology and anatomy. Lymphatic System Lymphatic System Anatomy Briefly

Part vascular system, which frees body tissues from metabolic products, infectious agents and their toxins, is called lymphatic. It contains vessels, nodes, ducts, as well as organs involved in the formation of lymphocytes.

With insufficient immune protection, tumor and microbial cells can spread along the lymph flow pathways. Stagnation of lymph leads to the accumulation of waste products in the tissues. To improve the drainage function of the lymphatic system, massage and special cleaning methods are prescribed.

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The lymphatic system includes capillary, intraorgan and stem vessels, nodes and lymphatic organs.

Vessels

Inside the organs there is a network of small lymphatic capillaries, they have very thin walls, through which they can easily penetrate from the intercellular space large particles protein and liquid. Subsequently, they combine into vessels similar to veins, but with more permeable membranes and a developed valve apparatus.

Vessels from organs carry lymph to the nodes. By appearance the lymphatic network is like a bead. This structure arises from the alternation of areas of narrowing and expansion at the site of attachment of the semilunar valves. The penetration of tissue fluid into the capillaries is explained by the difference in osmotic pressure (the lymph is more concentrated), and the reverse flow is impossible due to the valves.

Nodes

They have many incoming vessels and 1 or 2 outflow vessels. They are similar in shape to a bean or a ball about 2 cm. They filter the lymphatic fluid, retain and inactivate toxic substances and microbes, and the lymph is saturated with cells immune system- lymphocytes.

The fluid that moves through the lymphatic vessels is whitish or yellowish color... Its composition depends on the organ from which it leaves.

The following elements penetrate into the lymph:

water;
proteins (large molecules);
destroyed and tumor cells;
bacteria;
dust and smoke particles from the lungs;
liquid from abdominal cavity, pleura and pericardium, joints;
any foreign particles.

Basic functions in the body

The biological role of the lymphatic system is associated with the following areas of activity:

the formation of lymphocytes, which are responsible for cellular and humoral (with the help of special blood proteins) immunity;
delay in the lymph node of mechanical impurities, microbes and toxic compounds;
return of purified blood to the venous vessels;
transfer of fats from the intestinal lumen into the blood;
additional tissue drainage to reduce swelling;
absorption of large protein molecules from the interstitial fluid, which themselves cannot enter the blood vessels due to their size.

Watch the video about the human lymphatic system and its functions:

Lymph flow diagram

The initial absorption of tissue fluid occurs in the organs by lymphatic capillaries. The resulting lymph flows through the vascular network to the nodes. The purified and saturated with lymphocytes fluid from the lymph node moves into the trunks and ducts. There are only two of them in the body:

chest - collects lymph from the left upper limb, the left side of the head, chest and all parts of the body that lie under the diaphragm;
right - contains liquid from right hand, half of the head and chest.

Ducts carry lymph to the left and right subclavian veins. It is at the level of the neck that the lymphovenous anastomosis is located, through which the lymphatic fluid enters the venous blood.

The movement of lymph requires the simultaneous action of the following factors:

the pressure of the liquid that is formed in a continuous mode;
contraction of the smooth muscles of the vessels between the two valves - the muscle cuff (lymphangion);
vibrations of the walls of arteries and veins;
compression by muscles during body movements;
suction effect of the chest during breathing.

Organs of the lymphatic system

Lymphoid tissue is contained in various structures... They are united by the fact that they all serve as a site for the formation of lymphocytes:

the thymus is located behind the sternum, provides maturation and "specialization" of T-lymphocytes;
bone marrow is present in tubular bones limbs, pelvis, ribs, contains immature stem cells, from which blood cells are subsequently formed;
the pharyngeal tonsils are located in the nasopharyngeal region, protect against microbes, participate in hematopoiesis;
the appendix moves away from the initial section of the large intestine, cleanses the lymph, forms enzymes, hormones and bacteria involved in the digestion of food;
spleen - the largest organ of the lymphatic system, adjacent to the stomach in the left half of the abdominal cavity, acts as a filter for bacteria and foreign particles, produces antibodies, lymphocytes and monocytes, regulates the work bone marrow;
The lymph nodes internal organs(single or clusters) take part in the formation of cells for immune defense - T and B lymphocytes.

Types and groups of diseases

With diseases of the lymphatic system, inflammatory processes can occur:

lymphangitis - capillaries, vessels and trunks in contact with the focus of suppuration are affected;
lymphadenitis - the lymph nodes are involved, the infection penetrates with the lymph or directly through the skin (mucous membrane) in case of trauma.

Lesions of the organs of the lymphatic system can manifest itself in the form of tonsillitis with infection of the tonsils, appendicitis (inflammation of the appendix, appendix). Pathological changes in the thymus lead to muscle weakness, autoimmune processes, and tumors.

Dysfunction of the bone marrow causes various changes in the composition of the blood: cell deficiency with decreased immunity (), coagulability (), oxygen supply (anemia), and malignant blood tumors.

Enlargement of the spleen (splenomegaly) occurs in diseases of the blood, liver, typhoid fever... Also, an abscess or cyst can form in the tissue.

Stagnation of lymphatic fluid leads to the development of lymphedema ( lymphatic edema). It occurs when an obstruction in the vessels of a congenital (structural anomaly) or acquired character. Secondary lymphedema accompanies injuries, burns, infections, surgical interventions. With the progression of lymphostasis, elephantiasis of the lower extremities occurs, requiring surgery.

Elephantiasis of the lower extremities

Tumor processes in which lymphatic vessels are involved are often benign. They are called lymphangiomas. They are found on the skin, in the subcutaneous layer, as well as in places of accumulation of lymphoid tissue - neck, head, chest, abdominal cavity, inguinal and axillary areas... With malignancy, lymphosarcoma is located in the same areas.

Causes of disorders in the body

Inflammatory and tumor processes occur when the immune system malfunctions, when it ceases to cope with the body's defense function. This may be due to an action external factors:

unfavorable climatic conditions,
moving (disruption of adaptation),
radiation,
pollution of air, water,
nitrates in food,
prolonged exposure to the sun,
stress.

Chronic foci of infection in the body, as well as the weak function of the excretory organs, contribute to an excessive load on the lymphatic system. The result is a decrease in its basic functions. Of no small importance for the lymph flow is the state of the circulatory system, of which the lymphatic is a part.

Stagnant processes occur in the following pathological conditions:

circulatory failure - arterial (weakness of the heart) and venous (,);
hypodynamia, obesity;
diseases of the kidneys, liver, intestines;
congenital malformations of the organs of the lymphatic system;
injuries and operations, burns.

Symptoms of the onset of disease

If the movement of lymph is disturbed in the lower extremities, swelling occurs, especially after intense exertion. If treatment is not carried out at this stage, the swelling of the tissues (lymphedema) becomes dense, there is heaviness in the legs, cramps and soreness.

Inflammatory diseases of the vessels and nodes of the lymphatic system are manifested in the form of regional redness, swelling and thickening of the skin. This is followed by high temperature, chills and headache. With deep lymphangitis, there are no external manifestations, but the affected area increases in volume due to tissue edema. Lymph nodes with lymphadenitis become painful, dense, they can be easily felt.

Submandibular lymphadenitis

Condition diagnostics

In order to investigate the patency lymphatic vessels and an outflow blocking zone, use the following methods:

Lymphography with X-ray control, CT or MRI determine valvular insufficiency, structural abnormalities. Normal lymphogram looks like an uneven accumulation of contrast agent in the form of beads.
Lymphoscintigraphy with technetium allows detecting foci of radioisotope concentration in the zone of lymph stagnation.
Ultrasound with - areas of vasoconstriction, changes in the nodes.
Computer thermography is used for differential diagnosis with phlegmon, phlebitis and osteomyelitis.
Lymph node biopsy - detects blood tumors, cancer metastases.
Blood tests - with inflammation, leukocytosis is noted, with sowing, the causative agent of the infection can be determined.

If tuberculosis is suspected, tests with tuberculin (Mantoux), chest x-ray are performed.

Treatment options

In the initial stages of lymph stagnation, it is mainly used non-drug methods- massage, magnetotherapy, wearing compression hosiery. Good effect obtained from mechanical pneumatic compression and laser treatment with diseases of the lymphatic vessels.

With severe lymphedema, the following are prescribed:

phlebotonics (Detralex, Cyclo-3-Fort, Aescin);
enzymes - Wobenzym, Trypsin;
angioprotectors - Trental, Quercetin;
- Lasix, Trifas (no more than 2 - 3 days).

If there is a threat of sepsis, then it can be used or ultraviolet irradiation blood. At the stage of resorption or with sluggish inflammation, local compresses, dressings with Dimexide, Dioxidin, Chymotrypsin, mud treatment are shown.

The progression of lymph congestion with the formation of elephantiasis of the extremities is treated by laying outflow paths during microsurgical operations.

How to cleanse the lymphatic system

To improve the movement of lymph in the body, traditional medicine and massage techniques are used. An important condition for the prevention of diseases is motor mode- the load should be at least 30 minutes, normal walking in nature, breathing exercises have a healing effect.

For the accelerated elimination of metabolic products from the body and the neutralization of toxic compounds, use:

sauna (steam room, bath);
bath with warm water and sea salt;
saturation of tissues with clean water;
restriction of dairy, meat products, white bread, starch;
juices from cherries, blackberries, grapes, cranberries;
fresh beetroot and red cabbage salad with lemon;
adding parsley and dill, lettuce and fresh garlic to food;
herbal tea from clover, elderberry, nettle (a teaspoon of one of the herbs in a glass of boiling water three times a day);
tincture of Echinacea or Eleutherococcus 15 drops in the morning;
chicory instead of coffee;
spices - ginger, turmeric, fennel;
instead of sweets - berries of currants, blackberries, lingonberries and blueberries;
tincture of the type of Swedish bitterness - 10 g of juice from aloe leaves, a tablespoon of wormwood, rhubarb and senna leaves, on the tip of a knife - turmeric and saffron. Pour a liter of vodka and leave for 15 days. Drink a teaspoon with tea.

Impact of massage

Lymphatic drainage is enhanced with the use of strokes along the lymph flow. Since its movement occurs only from bottom to top, then the movements of the massage should have a similar direction.

In this case, the following changes occur in the tissues:

the movement of fluid from tissues to lymphatic capillaries is accelerated;
puffiness decreases,
products of metabolic processes are removed faster.

Pressing and squeezing works deeper soft tissue, and vibration enhances microcirculation. Massage is contraindicated in any acute process in the body, and especially in the presence of a purulent focus, since in these cases the accelerated lymph flow will lead to the spread of the lesion to other organs and tissues.

Lymphatic system has a drainage function, participates in metabolic processes and the formation of cells of the immune system. With overstrain (due to external factors or against the background of diseases), a failure of immunity occurs, which contributes to inflammatory or neoplastic processes.

For treatment, antibacterial drugs, venotonics, angioprotectors can be used. In severe cases, surgery is indicated. To cleanse the lymphatic system, you need to adjust the diet, move as much as possible, drink herbal teas, undergo a course of lymphatic drainage massage.

What is the lymphatic system?

Many people know about the body's need for blood circulation and the work of other systems, but not many know about high value lymphatic system. If lymph does not circulate throughout the body for just a couple of hours, then such an organism can no longer function.

Thus, every human body experiences continuous need in the work of the lymphatic system.

It is easiest to compare the lymphatic system with the circulatory system and isolate the following differences:

Openness, unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system is open, that is, there is no circulation as such.
Unidirectionality, if the circulatory system provides movement in two directions, then the lymph moves in the direction only from the peripheral to the central parts of the system, that is, the liquid collects first into the smallest capillaries and then moves into larger vessels, and the movement goes only in this direction.
There is no central pump. In order to ensure that the fluid moves in the desired direction, only a valve system is used.
More slow motion fluid versus the circulatory system.
The presence of special anatomical elements- lymph nodes that perform a significant function and are a kind of warehouses for lymphocytes.

The lymphatic system is of the greatest importance for metabolism and for ensuring immunity... It is in the lymph nodes that the bulk of the foreign elements that enter the body are processed.

If any virus appears in the body, then it is in the lymph nodes that work begins on the study and displacement of this virus from the body.

You yourself can notice this activity when you have, which testify to the body's fight against the virus... In addition, lymph regularly cleans the body and removes unnecessary elements from the body.

Learn more about the lymphatic system from the video:

Functions

If we talk in more detail about the functions, then the connection of the lymphatic system with the cardiovascular system should be noted. It is thanks to the lymph that delivery of various items that cannot be immediately in the cardiovascular system:

proteins;
fluid from tissue and interstitial space;
fats that come primarily from the small intestine.

These elements are transported to the venous bed and thus end up in the circulatory system. Further, these components can be removed from the body.

At the same time, many inclusions unnecessary for the body are processed even at the lymph stage, in particular, we are talking about viruses and infections that neutralized by lymphocytes and destroyed in the lymph nodes.

It should be noted the special function of the lymphatic capillaries, which have larger size compared to the capillaries of the circulatory system and thinner walls. Thanks to this, from the interstitial space to the lymph proteins and other components may enter.

Additionally, the lymphatic system can be used to cleanse the body, since the intensity of lymph flow largely depends on the compression of blood vessels and muscle tension.

Thus, massage and physical activity can make the lymph flow more efficient. Thanks to this, additional cleansing and healing of the body becomes possible.

Peculiarities

Actually the word "lymph" comes from the Latin "lympha", which translates as moisture or pure water. Only from this name it is possible to understand a lot about the structure of lymph, which washes and cleanses the entire body.

Many could observe lymph, since this fluid stands out on the surface with wounds on the skin... Unlike blood, the liquid is almost completely transparent.

By anatomical structure lymph refers to connective tissue and contains a large number of lymphocytes with complete absence erythrocytes and platelets.

In addition, lymph, as a rule, contains various waste products of the body. In particular, the previously noted large protein molecules that cannot be absorbed into the venous vessels.

Such molecules are often may be viruses, therefore, the lymphatic system is used for the absorption of such proteins.

The lymph can contain various hormones which are produced endocrine glands... Fats and some other nutrients come here from the intestines, and protein from the liver.

Direction of movement of lymph

The figure below shows a diagram of the movement of the lymph of the human lymphatic system. It does not display every lymphatic vessel and completely lymph nodes, which about five hundred in the human body.

Pay attention to the direction of travel. Lymph moves from the periphery to the center and from bottom to top... The liquid flows from small capillaries, which are then connected to larger vessels.

The movement goes through the lymph nodes, which contain great amount lymphocytes and cleanse the lymph.

Typically to the lymph nodes more vessels come in than out, that is, the lymph enters through many channels, and leaves through one or two. Thus, the movement continues to the so-called lymphatic trunks, which are the largest lymphatic vessels.

The largest is the thoracic duct., which is located near the aorta and passes lymph through itself from:

all organs that are located below the ribs;
the left side of the chest and the left side of the head;
left hand.

This duct connects to left subclavian vein which you can see marked in blue in the picture on the left side. It is there that the lymph from the thoracic duct enters.

It should be noted and right duct which collects fluid from the upper right side of the body, in particular from the chest and head, arms.

From here, the lymph flows into right subclavian vein, which is located in the figure symmetrically to the left. Additionally, it should be noted such large vessels that belong to the lymphatic system as:

right and left jugular trunks;
left and right subclavian trunks.

It should be said about the frequent location of the lymphatic vessels along the blood vessels, in particular the venous vessels. If you pay attention to the picture, you will see some the similarity of the location of the vessels of the circulatory and lymphatic systems.

The lymphatic system has great importance for the human body.

Many doctors consider the analysis of lymph to be no less relevant than a blood test, since it is the lymph that can indicate some factors that are not found in other tests.

In general, lymph, in combination with blood and intercellular fluid, constitutes the internal fluid medium in the human body.

Content

The lymphatic system in the body performs the functions of cleansing tissues, cells from foreign agents (foreign bodies), and protection from toxic substances. It is a part of the circulatory system, but differs in structure from it and is considered as an independent structural and functional unit with its own network of vessels and organs. main feature lymphatic system consists in its open structure.

What is the lymphatic system

The complex of specialized vessels, organs, structural elements is called the lymphatic system. Main elements:

Capillaries, trunks, vessels through which fluid (lymph) moves. The main difference from blood vessels is a large number of valves that allow fluid to be dispersed in all directions.
Nodes - single or organized by groups of education, performing the role of lymph filters. They trap harmful substances, process microbial and viral particles, antibodies by phagocytosis.
Central authorities - thymus, spleen, red bone marrow, in which specific immune blood cells - lymphocytes - are formed, matured and "trained".
Separate accumulations of lymphoid tissue - adenoids.

Functions

The human lymphatic system performs a number of important tasks:

Ensuring the circulation of tissue fluid, along with which toxic substances and metabolites are released from the tissue.
Transport of fats, fatty acids from small intestine to ensure fast delivery nutrients to organs, tissues.
Protective blood filtration function.
Immune function: production of large numbers of lymphocytes.

Structure

The following are distinguished in the lymphatic system structural elements: lymphatic vessels, nodes and lymph itself. Conventionally, in anatomy, the organs of the lymphatic system include some parts of the immune system, which provide a constant composition of human lymph, the utilization of harmful substances. The lymphatic system in women has, according to some studies, a larger network of blood vessels, while in men there is an increased number of lymph nodes. It can be concluded that the lymphatic system, due to the peculiarities of its structure, helps the immune system.

Scheme

The flow of lymph and the structure of the human lymphatic system obey a certain pattern, which allows lymph to flow from the interstitial space to the nodes. The basic rule of lymph flow is the movement of fluid from the periphery to the center, while passing filtration in several stages through local nodes. Moving away from the nodes, the vessels form trunks called ducts.

From the left upper limb, neck, left lobe of the head, organs below the ribs, flowing into the left subclavian vein, the lymph flow forms the thoracic duct. Passing through the right upper quarter of the body, including the head and chest, bypassing the right subclavian vein, the lymph flow forms the right duct. This separation helps not to overload the vessels and nodes, the lymph circulates freely from the interstitial space into the blood. Any blockage of the duct threatens with edema or tissue swelling.

Lymph movement

The speed, direction of movement of lymph during normal functioning are constant. The movement begins from the moment it is synthesized in the lymphatic capillaries. With the help of the contractile element of the walls of blood vessels and valves, the liquid is collected and moves to a certain group of nodes, filtered, then, purified, is poured into large veins. Thanks to this organization, the functions of the lymphatic system are not limited to the circulation of interstitial fluid, and it can work as an instrument of the immune system.

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Diseases of the lymphatic system

The most common diseases are lymphadenitis - tissue inflammation due to the accumulation of a large amount of lymphatic fluid, in which the concentration of harmful microbes and their metabolites is very high. Often, the pathology looks like an abscess. The mechanisms of lymphadenitis can be triggered by:

tumors, both malignant and benign;
prolonged squeezing syndrome;
injuries affecting directly the lymphatic vessels;
bacterial systemic diseases;
destruction of red blood cells

Diseases of the lymphatic system include local infectious organ lesions: tonsillitis, inflammation of certain lymph nodes, tissue lymphangitis. Such problems arise due to the failure of the human immune system, excessive infectious load. Folk methods treatments involve different ways cleaning of nodes, vessels.

How to cleanse the lymphatic system

The lymphatic system performs the function of a "filter" of the human body; many pathogenic substances accumulate in it. The body copes with the function of cleaning the lymphatic vessels and nodes on its own. However, when symptoms of lymphatic and immune system failure (thickening of the nodes, frequent colds) it is recommended for prevention purposes to independently carry out cleansing measures. How to cleanse the lymph and lymphatic system, you can ask your doctor.

A diet consisting of large amounts pure water, raw vegetables and boiled buckwheat without salt. This diet is recommended for 5-7 days.
Lymphatic drainage massage, which will eliminate lymph congestion and "stretch" the vessels, improving their tone. Use with caution when varicose veins.
Reception of phytopreparations and herbs. Oak bark, hawthorn fruits will enhance the lymph flow, the diuretic effect will contribute to the elimination of toxins.

Video

Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials of the article do not call for self-treatment... Only a qualified doctor can diagnose and give recommendations for treatment based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

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Lymph is clear liquid circulating throughout the body. Its main function is to cleanse the body of toxins and infectious agents by supplying intercellular fluid to the lymph nodes, as well as transporting nutrients from the lymph nodes to the human circulatory system. The lymphatic system, through which lymph flows, is a complex structure, similar to the circulatory system. There are a number of diseases of the lymphatic system that are very dangerous, therefore, must be identified in a timely manner.

The efficiency of the whole organism depends on the health of the lymphatic system.

The lymphatic system serves to cleanse the body. It ensures the maintenance of metabolism and tissue trophism, and also removes toxins, infections and disease-causing agents from tissues and organs.

The lymphatic system is a complex structure, the structure of which is similar to the structure of the circulatory system. However, unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system is not closed, so the lymph does not circulate in a circle, but moves strictly from the bottom up.

Passing through the lymph nodes, the lymph is cleansed and moves on. At about the level of the collarbones, it enters the circulatory system, thus supplying necessary substances into the blood.

The anatomy and structure of the lymphatic system are quite complex, the movement of lymph is carried out due to the smooth muscle structures of the lymphatic vessels, since there is no “pump” like the heart in this system.

The movement of lymph is carried out throughout the body. The main function of the lymphatic system is the production of immune cells - lymphocytes. Passing through the lymph nodes, the lymph is saturated with these cells and removes them into the circulatory system, providing normal functioning immunity.

Any disturbances in the work of the body immediately affect the functioning of the lymphatic system. So, diseases accompanied by a decrease in immunity and systemic infections can lead to an increase and inflammation of the lymph nodes.

The lymphatic system can malfunction when autoimmune diseases, infections, SARS and flu, etc.

The efficiency of the whole organism depends on the health of the lymphatic system, since local disturbances in the movement of lymph lead to its decrease, and also cause a number of severe symptoms. In order to timely recognize a malfunction in the lymphatic system, you should know how it works, its functions and the symptoms of various disorders.

Lymphatic capillaries

The lymphatic system begins with the lymphatic capillaries, which permeate the entire human body. They are rather large formations in comparison with blood capillaries.

Features of lymphatic capillaries:

large diameter - up to 0.2 mm;
the contours are uneven, protrusions of the walls of the capillaries are observed;
the walls are thin, permeable to the intercellular fluid.

Lymph capillaries “collect” the intercellular fluid, transport it to the vessels, and from there to the lymph nodes. The liquid literally passes through the walls of the capillaries, due to the peculiarity of their structure.

Capillaries can form lymphocapillary networks. Such networks are located near large organs and help to collect intercellular fluid.

The main function of the capillaries of the lymphatic system is to collect tissue fluid and supply it to the lymphatic vessels. Tissue fluid that enters the lymphatic system is called lymph.

Lymphatic vessels bend around the joints, bifurcating in front of them

The fusion of the lymphatic capillaries forms a lymphatic vessel. The main difference between a vessel and a capillary is thicker walls and a larger diameter. If the capillary wall is formed by one layer of endothelial cells, the vessel walls consist of three layers:

connective tissue sheath (outer layer);
smooth muscle tissue that forms the middle layer;
endothelial cells forming the inner layer vessel walls.

It is the cells of smooth muscle tissue that provide the movement of lymph through the lymphatic vessels. The vessels have valves that ensure the movement of lymph from the periphery to the center.

The location of the vessels of the lymphatic system largely repeats the structure blood vessels... Deep lymphatic vessels are located in the muscles and around the internal organs, most of them run parallel to the blood vessels. Superficial lymphatic vessels run parallel to all large saphenous veins. Lymphatic vessels bend around the joints, bifurcating in front of them, and collecting in a large vessel after the joint - this ensures the continuity of the lymphatic system.

Interesting! Large lymphatic vessels have nerve endings in the walls.

The vessels of the lymphatic system, like lymphocapillaries, can connect to form networks.

The lymph nodes

The lymph node is the most important organ of the lymphatic system. It is this organ that performs the main function - cleansing and saturating the lymph with immune cells. It is a round, oval or bean-shaped formation with a complex structure.

Lymph nodes are located in all parts of the body except the back, as well as near important internal organs. In general, there can be from 400 to 800 lymph nodes in the human body. Their sizes range from a few millimeters to two centimeters in diameter.

Large lymph nodes are located superficially. These are the so-called sentinel lymph nodes, which are located in the neck, groin and armpits. With any impairment of immunity, they can noticeably increase in size.

The largest number of lymph nodes are located in the abdominal cavity and along the intestines. Have different people there can be from 100 to 400 lymph nodes in this area. Various toxins and by-products of digestion are absorbed from the intestine into the lymph in large quantities, therefore, a large number of lymph nodes "work" in this zone at the same time to ensure normal functioning digestive system and the whole organism as a whole.

Lymph nodes are the most vulnerable part of the lymphatic system. They are the maturation of immune cells (lymphocytes) and the accumulation of antibodies produced by the body to fight various infections. When the lymph enters the node, it goes through several stages of purification, and all "impurities" remain in the lymph nodes. If there are too many of them, they can accumulate in these organs, causing inflammation of the lymph nodes (lymphadenitis).

In addition, sentinel lymph nodes are a kind of marker of the health of the whole organism. They increase against the background of severe infectious processes, inflammation, autoimmune reactions, and oncopathologies.

Lymphatic trunks and ducts

The thoracic duct is the largest in the body

The lymph nodes connect and form the main pathways for the movement of lymph in the body - the lymphatic trunks and ducts.

In total, there are 6 such trunks and ducts in the human body, three for the left and right venous node. The thoracic duct is the largest. It receives lymph from the lower extremities, abdominal cavity, mediastinum. Then, through the thoracic duct, the lymph enters the bloodstream.

In order to avoid the reverse movement of lymph, the ducts and trunks are equipped with valves that let fluid in only one direction, so that the lymph moves only from the bottom up.

Lymph flow diagram

The movement of lymph is carried out from the lower extremities to the head. The flow of lymph in the body is ensured by the well-coordinated work of the entire lymphatic system. Lymph enters the vessels and lymph circulation occurs according to the following scheme:

lymphocapillaries collect intercellular fluid from surrounding organs and tissues;
capillaries form vessels through which lymph moves to the lymph node;
in the lymph nodes, lymph is cleansed, after which it is saturated with immune cells;
from the lymph node, lymph flows into large vessels called trunks;
along the trunks, lymph moves into the ducts, penetrating into the circulatory system.

The lymphatic system does not have a pump to move the lymph. The circulation of lymph is supported by the vessels themselves, which expel fluid thanks to the smooth muscle cells of the walls.

To understand how the human lymphatic system works, the diagram will help the best, since the movement of lymph can only be explained in general terms. In general, lymph in the human body moves from the bottom up, from the periphery to the center, and then enters the circulatory system.

What is lymph?

Lymph serves to transport nutrients into the blood

Having figured out how the lymphatic system works, you should take a closer look at what lymph is and why it is needed. Lymph is a clear fluid that passes through the entire body. The colloquial name for lymph is ichor.

Despite the fact that few people know how the lymphatic system works, a person encounters lymph very often. For example, a clear liquid protruding from a wound after a blood stop is lymph.

Lymph and lymph circulation are very important concepts to understand. Thanks to this liquid, the regulation of immunity is ensured. In other words, if it were not for the lymph, the human body would be less able to cope with various infections and harmful compounds that enter the air through the respiratory tract.

The main properties of lymph are to cleanse the body and ensure the transport of immune cells into the circulatory system.

At the same time, lymph cells can represent serious danger for the whole organism, in case of particular serious diseases... The lymphatic system serves for the transport of nutrients into the blood, but it can also function as a kind of highway for infections and cancer cells in the event of a strong weakening of the body. So, if the immune system is significantly weakened, the lymphatic system cannot cope with the load, therefore the intercellular fluid is not completely cleared, and infectious agents settle in the lymph nodes. Through the movement of lymph, they can be carried throughout the body.

Where does lymph come from?

Lymph formation occurs directly with the penetration of interstitial fluid into the lymphatic system. This fluid is a blood by-product that enters the intercellular space through the blood capillaries. Thus, blood and lymph are really strongly connected and complementary.

This fluid washes every cell in the body. It collects all harmful substances, including infections and toxins, and then literally seeps through the lymphatic capillaries into the lymphatic system. At this stage, the interstitial fluid becomes lymph, and its further transformation occurs at the expense of the lymph nodes. Blood and lymph are related in the following way. Tissue fluid is formed when increasing blood pressure, as a result of which some of the fluid penetrates into the intercellular space. This fluid then enters the lymphatic system and, after some transformation, becomes lymph. The functions of lymph include the transport of nutrients into the circulatory system, therefore, after a short period of time, lymph enters the bloodstream, again becoming part of it.

Composition

Lymph is composed primarily of water and immune cells. The composition of lymph is approximately 96-97% water or intercellular fluid. There are no erythrocytes in the ichor, but it contains a large number of lymphocytes, the maturation of which is carried out in the lymphatic system. In addition to lymphocytes, lymph contains a small amount of other leukocytes - monocytes and granulocytes.

Important! The main cells of the lymph are represented by lymphocytes or immune cells, thanks to which humoral immunity is supported.

However, when asked what lymph is, one cannot simply say that it is water. In small amounts, lymph contains:

proteins;
glucose;
lipids;
minerals.

V chemical composition lymph there are three types of protein - albumin, fibrinogen, globulin.

Functions

The functions of the lymph include the transport of nutrients into the circulatory system.

Having figured out what lymph consists of and what it is, one should dwell in more detail on the functions of lymph in the body. Together with tissue fluid, not only harmful compounds enter the lymphatic system, but also necessary for the body proteins, minerals, electrolytes. These substances are needed by the body, so they must return to the blood - this is precisely the function that lymph performs.

In addition, lymph itself is needed in order to transport immune cells and antibodies into the blood from the lymph nodes. After the lymph passes through the lymph nodes, it is cleared of harmful substances, and everything useful that is contained in the lymph must return back to the circulatory system. Thus, the following functions of this fluid can be distinguished:

transport of electrolytes, proteins and water into the blood from the intercellular space;
transport of enzymes into the blood;
protection of the body from infection of injuries and wounds.

For any damage skin first blood comes out of the wound, and then lymph. This fluid collects red blood cells and bacteria in damaged tissues, thereby protecting against inflammation.

Some enzymes can enter the bloodstream only through the lymph - histaminase and lipase. This is how the metabolic function of the lymph and the lymphatic system as a whole manifests itself. In addition, through the lymph, a constant connection is maintained between tissues and organs, as well as between the lymphatic and circulatory systems.

The exact speed of lymph movement is unknown, however, on average, a person's body produces from two to four liters of this fluid per day. The process of release of lymph from tissues is continuous, so the loss of this fluid is replenished soon enough.

Knowing everything about lymph and the peculiarities of the lymphatic system, each person will be able to better understand how his own body works.

What are the differences between blood and lymph?

The difference between the lymphatic and circulatory systems is the presence of the second “pump” (heart)

On the one hand, blood and lymph are different fluids required the human body... On the other hand, they are closely related. Without the loss of water in the blood, with an increase in pressure, lymph will not be formed, since it is this process, which is natural for every organism, that leads to the appearance of intercellular fluid. Having figured out how lymph is formed (from water that penetrates into the intercellular space from the blood), and where it is located, it becomes clear that without blood it cannot function. Lymph is obtained from the blood and then incorporated into the blood. However, the composition of these two liquids is different. Lymph consists mainly of water, blood is plasma and a suspension of cellular components (erythrocytes, leukocytes). There are a lot of proteins in blood plasma, so it is more viscous and dense than lymph.

Like blood, lymph clots. However, this process is much slower. You can notice this at the site of small wounds - after a while the ichor becomes denser, instead of a freely flowing liquid, a small transparent and yellowish clot appears.

The main difference between the lymphatic and circulatory systems is the presence of the second “pump”, the function of which is performed by the heart. Thanks to this, the blood circulates in a circle, but the lymph always moves in only one direction.

The main function of blood is to transport oxygen to tissues and organs, while lymph serves to supply nutrients to the blood, thereby supplementing it. The main differences between lymph and blood can be summarized:

Blood supplies oxygen and useful material, lymph serves to cleanse the body or drain.
Blood moves much faster than lymph. Moreover, the blood speed changes with fluctuations in blood pressure, while the speed of lymph movement is a constant value.
The difference between lymph and blood is in composition, functions, speed of movement, however, both fluids are closely interrelated.
The kidneys and the liver are involved in the purification of the blood, and the lymph nodes are responsible for the lymph.
The volume of circulating blood is 4-5 liters, the amount of lymph in the human body is on average 2-3 liters.

In addition, for clarity, you can compare the tables of the composition of lymph and blood in order to clearly see the differences between these fluids.

The value of lymph in the human body can hardly be overestimated. Having figured out what the lymph and blood are made of, it becomes clear that they are inextricably linked and complement each other's functions.

Lymph movement after surgery

As mentioned, the location of the lymph is the entire body. Lymph is located in the lymphatic capillaries and blood vessels, through which it moves to the lymph nodes for cleansing. Despite the fact that this liquid serves to remove excess from the body, violations of the speed of its movement have Negative consequences for health.

Normally, the lymph flow is constant. It can get worse if the lymphatic vessels, ducts, and nodes are damaged. So, the speed of movement of lymph after surgery may decrease. Such a disease of the lymph is called lymphostasis, the main symptoms are severe swelling and pain at the site of vascular damage.

In the vast majority of cases, the deterioration of lymph outflow occurs after breast surgery - radical mastectomy. Such surgical interventions are the main treatment for breast cancer, with the deterioration of lymph flow due to the removal of lymph nodes located around the breast and in the armpit. Removal of the lymph node in this case is carried out due to the spread of metastases from the mammary glands, or to prevent this process in case of further progression of cancer.

Analysis of the composition of lymph

For overall assessment the state of the lymphatic system there is no need to take lymph - a blood test is enough

The composition of the lymph is determined by puncturing the lymph node (biopsy) and taking a small amount of fluid for analysis. Indications for such an analysis are inflammation of the lymph nodes, prolonged enlargement of the lymph nodes, suspicions of oncology.

A healthy person does not need to take a prophylactic lymph test; the health of the lymphatic system can be assessed by a biochemical blood test.

A lymph node biopsy is a rather traumatic procedure that is prescribed only if there are strict indications. In other cases, the assessment of the lymphatic system is carried out by general and biochemical blood tests. By the nature of the change in the number of lymphocytes, a diagnosis can be made if there is a suspicion of pathology of the lymphatic system. Moreover, a biochemical blood test can detect lymphoma on early stage.

Diseases of the lymphatic system

Knowing what lymph looks like, where it comes from and how it flows in the body, it becomes clear that the lymphatic system is subjected to an enormous load every day, providing cleansing of the body and supporting immunity. Accordingly, there are a number of pathologies of this system, in which the movement of lymph is disrupted. There are three main groups of diseases:

lymph node pathology;
lymphomas;
lymphostasis.

Lymph node pathologies are associated with pathogenic bacteria and infections absorbed into the lymph from the affected surrounding tissues and organs. In addition, antibodies and immune cells formed in the lymph nodes cannot always cope with the disease, so the lymph nodes become infected and inflamed, and the lymph can spread the infection throughout the body.

Lymphadenitis and lymphadenopathy

The causes of lymphadenitis - any infectious diseases organs (ARVI, influenza) located near the affected lymph node

Most often, there are two pathologies of the lymph nodes - lymphadenopathy and lymphadenitis. Lymphadenopathy is an enlarged lymph node. This is not an independent disease, but rather a symptom, which means that something is going wrong in the body. Most often, the lymphatic system reacts by enlarging lymph nodes to episodes of a weakened immune system. The causes of lymphadenopathy:

infections;
inflammatory diseases of the ENT organs;
pathology of the digestive system;
diseases of the mediastinal organs;
tuberculosis;
sexually transmitted diseases;
allergic reactions;
post-vaccination reactions;
autoimmune processes.

As a rule, lymphadenopathy is observed in those groups of lymph nodes that are most close to the diseased organ. So, with tonsillitis, cervical lymph nodes increase, with mastopathy - chest and axillary, with diseases genitourinary system- inguinal. The lymph nodes of the abdominal cavity increase against the background of gastrointestinal diseases, including exacerbation of chronic diseases. The only specific symptom of lymphadenopathy is swollen lymph nodes.

Lymphadenitis is an inflammation of the lymph node. If lymphadenopathy is not a disease and therefore does not require treatment, lymphadenitis is very dangerous. At inflammatory process the lymph node is noticeably enlarged, the skin around it turns red, pain appears on palpation and at rest. The causes of lymphadenitis are any infectious diseases of organs located near the affected lymph node. The infection enters the lymph nodes with the flow of lymph when they are unable to cope with cleansing the lymph due to the large number of pathogenic bacteria and toxic compounds.

The causes of lymphadenitis are predominantly bacterial, the disease can cause:

staphylococcus;
streptococcus;
Pneumococcus;
pale treponema;
Koch's wand.

All of these bacteria cause inflammatory diseases. Treponema pallidum is the causative agent of syphilis, Koch's bacillus is a mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Treatment of lymph in this case consists in taking antibacterial agents... The drugs are selected by the doctor after conducting a series of appropriate tests to accurately identify the causative agent of the disease.

It should be remembered that with pathologies of the lymph nodes, it is important not only to eliminate the symptoms, but also the disease that caused the inflammation or enlargement of the organs of the lymphatic system.

Lymphomas

Lymphomas are groups of diseases of the lymphatic tissue. They are divided into two types - Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Hodgkin's lymphoma (lymphogranulomatosis) is a malignant pathology of the lymphatic system with rapid progression and complex treatment... Disease long time is asymptomatic. A sign of pathology may be an increase in sentinel lymph nodes without any other ailments and signs. This disease is treated with radiation and chemotherapy. In advanced cases, the only way to cure the disease is through bone marrow transplantation. Due to the absence of specific symptoms at an early stage, the pathology is characterized by a high probability of death.

Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas are also called lymphosarcoma. In fact, it is benign tumor lymphoid tissue, which spreads from one pathological focus throughout the lymphatic system. The first symptom of the disease is an enlargement of one or more superficial lymph nodes and general malaise... As a rule, non-Hodgkin's lymphomas are quite successfully treated, but timely diagnosis and therapy is important here. Any benign lymphoma carries some risk of malignancy.

Lymphomas are diagnosed with biochemical analysis blood. Since no one is immune from this disease, it is recommended to take a blood test annually.

Lymphostasis

On initial stage lymphostasis, lymphatic drainage massage shows high efficiency

The definition of lymphostasis is the accumulation of fluid with a high protein content in the lower or upper extremities. Pathology develops as a result of a violation of the outflow of lymph due to damage to the lymphatic vessels, removal of lymph nodes or oncopathologies.

The disease usually affects the lower extremities. The development of lymphostasis of the hands is associated mainly with mastectomy.

Typical symptoms of the disease:

severe swelling of the affected limb;
a noticeable increase in the affected leg or arm in volume;
pain during exertion;
disorders of tissue trophism.

The disease greatly impairs the patient's quality of life and is difficult to treat. Initial forms lymphostasis is treated with lymphatic drainage massage and wearing a special compression hosiery to prevent overstretching of the lymphatic vessels. Severe forms pathologies are not amenable to treatment. In these cases, lymphostasis leads to elephantiasis and disability.

Thus, the lymphatic system is an important part of the body, and the lymph is its main instrument. Pathologies of the lymphatic system are very dangerous, therefore they require timely treatment... Lymph can be checked by a blood test, which doctors recommend taking annually, even if there are no symptoms.

Lymph nodes are one of the most important organs of the lymphatic system, they play the role of filters, preventing various microorganisms from entering the blood .

The location of the lymph nodes was conceived by nature very rationally, so that they would serve as an obstacle to bacteria, viruses, and malignant cells. The lymphatic system is not closed in a circle, like the cardiovascular system, fluid (lymph) moves through it in only one direction. It collects along the lymphatic capillaries and vessels and moves from the periphery to the center,
vessels collect in large ducts, and then flow into the central veins.

Lymph nodes are located in clusters along blood vessels and their branches, through which lymph is filtered, as well as near internal organs. Knowing where the lymph nodes are located, everyone can assess their size and density. Monitoring the state of your lymph nodes allows you to note even their minor changes, which in turn contributes to the timely diagnosis of many diseases.

By location, the lymph nodes can be divided into two large groups:

Internal
External

Internal lymph nodes

Internal lymph nodes are located in groups and chains along large vessels, next to the most important human organs

Visceral nodes

Lymph from organs in the abdominal cavity is collected to them.

Allocate:

Splenic nodes... They lie at the gate of the spleen, take lymph from the left half of the body of the stomach and its bottom.
Mesenteric nodes - located directly in the mesentery of the intestine, take lymph, respectively, from their part of the intestine.
Gastric - left gastric, right and left gastroepiploic.
Hepatic - along the large hepatic vessels.

Parietal or parietal

These are retroperitoneal nodes, which include paraaortic and paracaval. They are located along the aorta and inferior vena cava in the form of clusters of different sizes, connected by lymphatic vessels. Three clusters are distinguished among them: left, right and intermediate lumbar clusters.

External lymph nodes

External lymph nodes are those that are close to the surface of the body, often just under the skin, sometimes deeper, under the muscles. They are characterized by the fact that for their examination it is not necessary to resort to complex diagnostic manipulations. It is enough to inspect and feel to suspect this or that pathology.

Location of the lymph nodes external level everyone needs to know, this will help you on your own early dates identify changes in them in order to consult a doctor. External ones include those that collect lymph from the head, neck, arms and legs, mammary gland, partly organs of the chest, abdominal cavity, small pelvis.

Superficial lymph nodes are the following large groups:

Lymph nodes of the head and neck.
Above and subclavian nodes.
Axillary lymph nodes.
Elbow
Inguinal

Cervical, supraclavicular and subclavian, axillary and inguinal lymph nodes are of the greatest importance in diagnosis. Where the lymph nodes of these groups are located will be discussed below.

Lymph nodes of the head and neck

Lymph nodes on the head are several small clusters:

Parotid superficial and deep
Occipital
Mastoid
and chin
Facial

In the figure below, you can see the lymph nodes on the head and face, the location of which is important to know for the correct diagnosis of diseases and in cosmetology practice. Many lymphatic drainage procedures are based on the knowledge of where the lymph nodes are located, in particular the Asahi rejuvenating massage. The group of facial nodes is located deep enough in the tissue, rarely becomes inflamed and has no diagnostic value in medical practice.

The lymph nodes of the neck are divided as follows:

Anterior cervical

superficial;
deep.

Lateral cervical

superficial;
deep top and bottom.

Supraclavicular
Additional

It is called. This is a wake-up call that shouldn't be ignored.

Axillary lymph nodes

Lymph nodes on the hands are an integral part of the examination. The ulnar and axillary lymph nodes are easily accessible.
Big clinical significance have, the location of which caused the outflow in them not only of lymph from the upper limb, but also from the organs of the chest and breast. They are located in fatty tissue armpit, are divided into 6 groups, due to their anatomical location in the cavity.

For a more accurate understanding of where axillary lymph nodes, a diagram of their location is presented.

Such detailed diagram with the division of nodes into groups is important in oncological practice. Postoperative staging of breast cancer is based on the lesions of nodes from specific groups. In the usual clinical practice such a detailed division into groups does not really matter, the more deeply located nodes are almost impossible to probe.

The ulnar lymph nodes are of less importance, since they are collectors only from the lower part of the arm, elbow joint, increase only at systemic diseases lymphatic system and direct infection of the hand or forearm. Their increase is easily noticeable, and therefore does not require complex diagnostic techniques.

Inguinal lymph nodes

Inguinal lymph nodes in women and men are located the same, are divided into deep and superficial. Superficial ones are easily felt under the skin in the groin fold, between the pubic bone and the leg, even normally they can be felt in the form of small mobile peas up to 5 mm in size.

The location of the lymph nodes in the groin is conceived by nature in such a way as to collect lymph in them not only from lower limbs, but also from the pelvic organs (uterus and ovaries in women and the prostate in men) and external genitalia.

The causes of inflammation of the inguinal lymph nodes in men and women can be of a different nature.

Below is a figure that shows all groups of lymph nodes in the pelvis and groin area.

In addition to the inguinal, there are also lymph nodes on the legs, the principle of the location of which does not differ from the same on the hands.

They are also large joints, in this case knee. The nodes are located in the tissue of the popliteal fossa, increase mainly during infectious processes below the knee, purulent wounds, erysipelas.

Lymph node examination technique

To diagnose lymphadenopathy, examination and palpation (feeling) are used. Only superficial lymph nodes are available to these techniques, deeper ones must be examined using the method of ultrasound diagnostics.

The examination of the lymph nodes is carried out on both sides at the same time, since it is necessary to compare the affected lymph node with a healthy one. The number of enlarged nodes in each study group is noted.

In addition, their density, soreness, mobility in relation to the skin, to each other are determined. Also, in the diagnosis of inflammation, examination of the skin over the node is of great importance, redness, increased local temperature can indicate a purulent process in the node.

Examination of the lymph nodes of the head

Palpation is carried out from top to bottom, starting from the occipital nodes on the head. Palpation is carried out with the pads of bent fingers. Feeling should be soft and smooth without pressure, as if slightly rolling over the knots.

First, the occipital lymph nodes are felt, the location of which is easy to determine by placing fingers on the muscles of the neck, in the place where they attach to the head. After palpation behind the ear or mastoid lymph nodes, they are located behind auricle near the mastoid process. Then the parotid and submandibular lymph nodes are examined.

The location of the submandibular nodes, their characteristics are determined by bent fingers, which wind up under lower jaw and, as it were, slightly press the nodes to the bone. The chin lymph nodes are examined in the same way, only closer to the center line, that is, under the chin.

Examination of the lymph nodes of the neck

After examining the lymph nodes of the head, they begin to feel the lymph nodes of the neck. Only superficial and supraclavicular lymph nodes are palpated. Palpation of the hands cervical lymph nodes the following: gently press the bent fingers to the lateral surface of the neck along the back and then the front edges of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It is there that the superficial groups of cervical lymph nodes are located. In this case, the brushes should be kept horizontally.

The supraclavicular lymph nodes are located above the clavicle, between the legs of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The pads of the bent fingers are placed on the area above the collarbone and lightly pressed.

Normally, the supraclavicular nodes are not palpable, however, with stomach cancer, there may be a single metastasis in the left supraclavicular region (Virchow's metastasis), in addition, an increase in the left supraclavicular nodes indicates an advanced stage of ovarian cancer in women, bladder, testicles and prostate cancer in men, and sometimes cancer pancreas.

An increase in the right supraclavicular lymph nodes indicates a tumor located in chest... After the supraclavicular, the subclavian lymph nodes are palpated in the same way.