Write a note on lymphatic system.

Lymphatic system is related with the circulation of lymph. Lymph is also a fluid like blood which helps in transportation of various materials like nutrients, enzymes, hormones, waste materials from one part to another. Lymph is an intracellular fluid which is formed due to the leakage of blood cells, plasma, proteins from the capillaries. It is a colourless fluid.

For the transportation of lymph, lymphatic system consists of lymph capillaries, lymph vessels and lymphatic nodes.

The lymph first enters into lymphatic capillaries from intracellular fluid. Then, these capillaries open into large lymphatic vessels.

Following are the functions associated with the lymphatic system:

•It collects the intracellular fluid and then again returns it blood circulation.

•This system also helps in absorption and transportation of lipids. Several lymphatic vessels are also present in villi in small intestine. There lymphatic vessels absorb the lipids and further transport it.

•Lymphatic system also provides protection against diseases as they are a part of our immune system which protects us against several diseases.

Following is the diagrammatic representation of lymphatic system: