18: The Lymphatic System
Skills to Develop
- Describe the structure of the lymphatic tissue (lymph fluid, vessels, ducts, and organs)
- Describe the structure of the primary and secondary lymphatic organs
The lymphatic system is the system of vessels, cells, and organs that carries excess fluids to the bloodstream and filters pathogens from the blood. The swelling of lymph nodes during an infection and the transport of lymphocytes via the lymphatic vessels are but two examples of the many connections between these critical organ systems.