What the lymphatic system is
The lymphatic system is a system of thin tubes that runs throughout the body. These tubes are called lymph vessels or lymphatic vessels.
The lymphatic system is like the blood circulation - the tubes (vessels) branch through all parts of the body like the arteries and veins that carry blood. But the lymphatic system tubes are much finer and carry a colourless liquid called lymph.
Lymph is a clear fluid that circulates around the body tissues. It contains a high number of lymphocytes (white blood cells). Plasma leaks out of the capillaries to surround and bathe the body tissues. This then drains into the lymph vessels.
The fluid, now called lymph, then flows through the lymphatic system to the biggest lymph vessel - the thoracic duct. The thoracic duct then empties back into the blood circulation.
Lymph glands
You can probably feel some of your lymph nodes. There are lymph nodes in many parts of your body including
- Under your arms, in your armpits
- In each groin (at the top of your legs)
- In your neck
There are also lymph nodes that you cannot feel in
- Your abdomen
- Your pelvis
- Your chest
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