home Audience 1 The structure and functions of the human lymphatic system - diseases, composition and cleansing of lymph with folk remedies. Lymphatic system. Myths and reality The human lymphatic system serves for

The structure and functions of the human lymphatic system - diseases, composition and cleansing of lymph with folk remedies. Lymphatic system. Myths and reality The human lymphatic system serves for

Content

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

What is the lymphatic system

A complex of specialized vessels, organs, and structural elements is called the lymphatic system. Essential elements:

Capillaries, trunks, vessels through which fluid (lymph) moves. The main difference from blood vessels is the large number of valves that allow fluid to disperse in all directions.
Nodes are single or organized in groups formations that act as lymph filters. They retain harmful substances and process microbial and viral particles and antibodies through phagocytosis.
The central organs are the thymus, spleen, red bone marrow, in which specific immune blood cells - lymphocytes - are formed, mature and “trained”.
Separate accumulations of lymphoid tissue are 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 leave the tissue.
Transport of fats and fatty acids from the small intestine, which ensures rapid delivery of nutrients to organs and tissues.
Protective blood filtration function.
Immune function: production of large numbers of lymphocytes.

Structure

The lymphatic system has the following 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 ensure the constant composition of human lymph and the disposal of harmful substances. According to some studies, the lymphatic system in women has a larger network of vessels, and in men there is an increased number of lymph nodes. We can conclude that the lymphatic system, due to the peculiarities of its structure, helps the functioning of the immune system.

Scheme

The flow of lymph and the structure of the human lymphatic system obey a certain pattern, which provides the lymph with the opportunity 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 through 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; lymph circulates freely from the interstitial space into the blood. Any blockage of the duct threatens edema or tissue swelling.

Lymph movement

The speed and direction of lymph movement during normal functioning are constant. The movement begins from the moment of synthesis 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, it 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 a tool 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 large amounts of lymph fluid, in which the concentration of harmful microbes and their metabolites is very high. Often, the pathology takes the form of an abscess. The mechanisms of lymphadenitis can be triggered by:

tumors, both malignant and benign;
long-term compartment syndrome;
injuries affecting directly the lymphatic vessels;
bacterial systemic diseases;
destruction of red blood cells

Diseases of the lymphatic system include local infectious lesions of organs: tonsillitis, inflammation of individual lymph nodes, tissue lymphangitis. Such problems arise due to the failure of the human immune system and excessive infectious load. Traditional methods of treatment involve various methods of cleaning nodes and blood vessels.

How to cleanse the lymphatic system

The lymphatic system serves as a “filter” for the human body; many pathogenic substances accumulate in it. The body copes with the function of cleaning lymphatic vessels and nodes on its own. However, if symptoms of incompetence of the lymphatic and immune systems appear (hardening of nodes, frequent colds), it is recommended to independently carry out cleansing measures for preventive purposes. You can ask your doctor how to cleanse the lymph and lymphatic system.

A diet consisting of plenty of clean water, raw vegetables and boiled buckwheat without salt. It is recommended to follow this diet for 5-7 days.
Lymphatic drainage massage, which will eliminate lymph stagnation and “stretch” the blood vessels, improving their tone. Use with caution for varicose veins.
Taking herbal medicines and herbs. Oak bark and hawthorn fruits will increase lymph flow, and the diuretic effect will help eliminate toxins.

Video

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

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What is the lymphatic system?

The human lymphatic system is a huge network of tiny vessels that combine into larger ones and are directed to the lymph nodes. Lymphatic capillaries penetrate all human tissues, as well as blood vessels. Connecting with each other, the capillaries form a tiny network. Through it, fluid, protein substances, metabolic products, microbes, as well as foreign substances and toxins are removed from the tissues.

Lymph, which fills the lymphatic system, contains cells that protect the body from invading microbes as well as foreign substances. By combining, capillaries form vessels of various diameters. The largest lymphatic duct flows into the circulatory system.

What are lymph nodes and why are they needed?

Lymph nodes are round or oval-shaped formations ranging in size from 1 millimeter to 2 centimeters. The lymph node is a barrier to the spread of both infection and cancer cells. It produces lymphocytes - protective cells that actively participate in the destruction of foreign substances and cells.

There are several groups of lymph nodes. These groups are located in such a way as to become a barrier to infection and cancer. Thus, the lymph nodes are located in the elbow, armpit, knee, and groin area. The lymph nodes of the neck provide protection against infections and tumors of the head and organs located in the neck.

A huge number of lymph nodes are located in the abdominal and chest cavity. Lymphocapillaries penetrate organs as well as superficial tissues. Lymph nodes located along the blood vessels perform the same functions.

Enlarged lymph nodes

Enlarged lymph nodes indicate trouble in the area that the node “serves.” Most often, an enlarged lymph node is associated with infection, less often it is a consequence of a tumor lesion.

With purulent processes, as a rule, acute lymphadenitis occurs - inflammation of the lymph node. An inflammatory process occurs due to the ingress of microbes from wounds located in the “service area” of the lymph node. The main manifestation is an enlargement of the lymph node, the appearance of pain when palpating it. When a purulent process occurs above the lymph node, the skin may turn red. If the resulting cavity is not opened at this moment, the membrane of the lymph node ruptures and pus penetrates into the surrounding tissue. A serious complication of lymphadenitis occurs - phlegmon.

In children, enlargement of lymph nodes due to tuberculosis is one of the characteristic manifestations of infection. Most often, the lymph nodes of the chest cavity become enlarged. Less commonly, there is an increase in the lymph nodes of the neck (popularly called “scrofula”).

A common cause of lymph node enlargement in children is cat scratch disease. The causative agent of this infection is a microbe called Bartonella. Cats are carriers of the bacteria. From the scratch, microbes spread through the lymphatic vessels and enter the lymph nodes, which become enlarged and painful. A non-healing purulent wound and an enlarged nearby lymph node should always suggest cat scratch disease as the cause of this condition.

In acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI), children may experience an increase in several groups of lymph nodes. This is a consequence of an excessive response of the immune system to the invasion of viruses into the body. As a rule, the lymph nodes in such cases increase slightly and are painful when touched.

With sexually transmitted diseases, in particular syphilis, an enlarged lymph node, usually in the groin area, is preceded by the appearance of an ulcer on the genitals - chancroid. Unlike other infectious diseases, with syphilis, an enlarged lymph node can be painless.

Long-term enlargement of several groups of lymph nodes may indicate diseases such as brucellosis, listeriosis, mononucleosis, and HIV infection.

Enlarged lymph nodes in tumor diseases

Tumor involvement of the lymph nodes can be a consequence of both lymphoproliferative diseases, when the tumor initially originates from the lymph node, and a consequence of metastatic lesions. Lymphoproliferative diseases include, first of all, lymphogranulomatosis and lymphosarcoma. Lymph nodes in these diseases increase to 3-4 cm, and sometimes more, and become dense. When palpated, such lymph nodes are painless. With the initial enlargement of the intrathoracic and intra-abdominal lymph nodes, lymphoproliferative diseases may not be recognized immediately.

Metastatic damage to the lymph nodes is observed in a number of diseases. In this case, tumor cells enter the nodes through the lymphatic tract. As they multiply, they lead to enlargement of the lymph node. Breast cancer, melanoma, thyroid cancer, laryngeal cancer, tongue cancer, rectal cancer, and lung cancer most often metastasize to the lymph nodes. With metastatic lesions, the lymph node is dense and painless.

Enlargement of the inguinal lymph nodes occurs with:

Melanoma of the skin and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin of the lower extremities, lumbar and gluteal region
Rectal cancer
Vulvar cancer
Lymphomas
and etc.

The cause of enlarged lymph nodes in the axillary area may be:

Mammary cancer
Melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin of the upper extremities, shoulder girdle, upper back and chest
Lymphogranulomatosis
and etc.

The cause of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck may be:

Thyroid cancer
Laryngeal cancer, cancer of the floor of the mouth, tongue cancer
Lymphogranulomatosis
and etc.

References:

A.G. Rakhmanova, V.K. Prigozhkina, V.A. Neverov. Infectious diseases. Guide for general practitioners. Moscow-St. Petersburg, 1995.""

How can we help our body?

Ten tips to keep your lymphatic system in good condition:

1. Exercises

Regular exercise improves blood circulation, lymph flows smoothly in the body. Jumping on a trampoline or jumping rope is thought to be particularly beneficial for the lymphatic system.

2. Drink lemon water

Lymph is 95% water, so getting enough fluid is essential for the system to function well. Without the right amount of water, lymph cannot flow properly, causing dehydration. Lemon adds alkali to the water, which supplies the body with minerals.

3. Eat right

Avoid processed foods. Sugar substitutes and preservatives put a lot of stress on the lymphatic system. Natural foods that contain vitamins and minerals will help cleanse your body. Fruits, vegetables, spirulina, flaxseed oil, walnuts, almonds, Brazil nuts and avocados provide the body with important vitamins and minerals, fatty acids and other essential nutrients to ensure proper lymph function.

4. Massage with a dry brush

This massage improves lymph flow. Before taking a shower, massage areas of the body from bottom to top (in the direction of lymph movement) for 5 minutes. Watch the video

5. Drink herbal teas

Many herbs have been used for centuries as medicine. Echinacea, red clover, astragalus, commonweed, etc. are used to fight diseases. But if you are pregnant or taking medication, you should consult your doctor.

6. Wear loose clothes

Wearing tight clothing for long periods of time can slow down the flow of lymph and lead to blockages. Wear comfortable clothes that allow your body to breathe.

Take a contrast shower for 5 minutes, change the water temperature from cold to hot, this is useful for good blood and lymph circulation. Hot water causes blood vessels to expand, while cold water causes them to contract. This therapy is not recommended for pregnant women and people with high blood pressure.

8. Avoid cosmetic products with chemicals

Most creams, deodorants, lotions, perfumes and other popular cosmetic products contain harmful chemicals that travel through the skin into the lymphatic system. Choose organic products that do not contain chemicals or make your own cosmetics at home.

9. Breathe deeply

As simple as it may sound, breathing exercises stimulate lymph flow, which helps prevent the buildup of toxins in the body.

10. Alternative therapy

Acupuncture stimulates blood flow, improves blood circulation, lymph circulation, and helps remove toxins from cells.

For any changes in the condition of the lymph nodes, consult a doctor!

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The lymphatic system is a part of the vascular system that participates, together with the venous bed, in the outflow of fluids from tissues (Fig. 1). The roots of the lymphatic system are the lymphatic capillaries, which receive metabolic products from tissues, and, under pathological conditions, foreign particles and microorganisms. Cancer cells can spread through the lymphatic vessels. Lymphatic capillaries are thin-walled endothelial tubes connected in a network; they are present everywhere except the brain and cartilage, sclera and lens of the eye. The diameter of lymphatic capillaries is several times greater than the diameter of blood capillaries. When lymphatic capillaries merge, lymphatic vessels are formed, which are characterized by the presence of valves that ensure lymph flow in one direction. At the locations of the valves, narrowings are formed, and therefore the vessels have a distinct shape. Lymphatic vessels form wide-loop plexuses in the walls of organs. Several groups of efferent lymphatic vessels emerge from an organ or part of the body and travel to nearby regional lymph nodes. Flowing through the lymph node, the lymph is enriched with lymphocytes.

Lymph nodes are involved in the processes and defense reactions of the body. They are active biological filters, produce antibodies and regulate lymph flow. In the lymph nodes, lymph currents from individual organs in the area merge. Lymphatic vessels leaving the lymph nodes form larger vessels - lymphatic trunks (lumbar, intestinal, subclavian, jugular and bronchomediastinal). The trunks merge into two lymphatic ducts: the thoracic duct, which collects lymph from the tissues of 3/4 of the body, and the right lymphatic duct, which collects lymph from the right half of the head and neck, the right half of the chest cavity and the right arm. The thoracic duct (30 to 41 cm long) begins in the abdominal cavity, passes through the diaphragm into the posterior cavity and continues in the neck, emptying into the left subclavian vein. The right lymphatic duct (1-1.5 cm long) is located on the border of the neck and chest on the right and flows into the right subclavian vein. The lymphatic system also includes lymphoid follicles of the mucous membranes and tonsils.

Rice. 1. Human lymphatic system(front view): 1 - lymphatic vessels of the face; 2 - submandibular lymph nodes; 3 - submental lymph nodes; 4 - mouth of the thoracic duct; 5 - anterior mediastinal lymph nodes; 6 - axillary lymph nodes; 7 - superficial lymphatic vessels of the arm, following the course of the cephalic vein; 8 - medial group of superficial lymphatic vessels of the hand; 9 - lumbar lymph nodes; 10 - superior iliac lymph nodes; 11 - internal iliac lymph nodes; 12 - superficial inguinal lymph nodes; 13 - medial group of superficial lymphatic vessels of the leg; 14 - lateral group of superficial lymphatic vessels of the leg; 15 - superficial lymphatic vessels of the foot; 16 - deep lymphatic vessels of the foot; 17 - deep lymphatic vessels of the leg; 18 - deep lymphatic vessels of the thigh; 19 - deep lymphatic vessels of the palm; 20 - deep inguinal lymph nodes; 21 - lower iliac lymph nodes; 22 - deep lymphatic vessels; 23 - thoracic duct; 24 - intercostal lymph nodes; 25 - superficial ulnar lymph nodes; 26 - brachial lymph nodes; 27 - subclavian trunk; 28 - jugular trunk; 29 - deep cervical lymph nodes; 30 - jugular-digastric lymph node; 31 - retroauricular lymph node; 32 - parotid lymph nodes.

Lymphatic system – an integral part of the vascular system, which drains tissues through the formation of lymph and conducts it into the venous bed (additional drainage system).

Up to 2 liters of lymph are produced per day, which corresponds to 10% of the volume of fluid that is not reabsorbed after filtration in the capillaries.

Lymph is the fluid that fills the lymphatic vessels and nodes. It, like blood, belongs to the tissues of the internal environment and performs trophic and protective functions in the body. In its properties, despite its great similarity with blood, lymph differs from it. At the same time, lymph is not identical to the tissue fluid from which it is formed.

Lymph consists of plasma and formed elements. Its plasma contains proteins, salts, sugar, cholesterol and other substances. The protein content in lymph is 8-10 times less than in blood. 80% of the formed elements of lymph are lymphocytes, and the remaining 20% are other white blood cells. There are normally no red blood cells in lymph.

Functions of the lymphatic system:

Tissue drainage.

Ensuring continuous circulation of fluid and metabolism in human organs and tissues. Prevents the accumulation of fluid in the tissue space with increased filtration in the capillaries.

Lymphopoiesis.

Transports fats from the site of absorption in the small intestine.

Removal from the interstitial space of substances and particles that are not reabsorbed in the blood capillaries.

Spread of infection and malignant cells (tumor metastasis)

Factors ensuring lymph movement

Filtration pressure (caused by the filtration of fluid from blood capillaries into the intercellular space).

Constant formation of lymph.

Availability of valves.

Contraction of surrounding skeletal muscles and muscular elements of internal organs (lymphatic vessels are compressed and lymph moves in the direction determined by the valves).

The location of large lymphatic vessels and trunks near blood vessels (the pulsation of the artery compresses the walls of the lymphatic vessels and helps the flow of lymph).

Suction action of the chest and negative pressure in the brachiocephalic veins.

Smooth muscle cells in the walls of lymphatic vessels and trunks .

Table 7

Similarities and differences in the structure of the lymphatic and venous systems

Lymphatic capillaries– thin-walled vessels, the diameter of which (10-200 microns) exceeds the diameter of blood capillaries (8-10 microns). Lymphatic capillaries are characterized by tortuosity, the presence of narrowings and expansions, lateral protrusions, the formation of lymphatic “lakes” and “lacunae” at the confluence of several capillaries.

The wall of the lymphatic capillaries is built from a single layer of endothelial cells (in the blood capillaries there is a basement membrane outside the endothelium).

Lymphatic capillaries No in the substance and membranes of the brain, cornea and lens of the eyeball, spleen parenchyma, bone marrow, cartilage, epithelium of the skin and mucous membranes, placenta, pituitary gland.

Lymphatic postcapillaries– an intermediate link between lymphatic capillaries and vessels. The transition of the lymphatic capillary into the lymphatic postcapillary is determined by the first valve in the lumen (the valves of the lymphatic vessels are paired folds of the endothelium and the underlying basement membrane lying opposite each other). Lymphatic postcapillaries have all the functions of capillaries, but lymph flows through them only in one direction.

Lymphatic vessels are formed from networks of lymphatic postcapillaries (capillaries). The transition of a lymphatic capillary into a lymphatic vessel is determined by a change in the structure of the wall: along with the endothelium, it contains smooth muscle cells and adventitia, and in the lumen there are valves. Therefore, lymph can flow through the vessels only in one direction. The area of the lymphatic vessel between the valves is currently designated by the term "lymphangion" (Fig. 58).

Rice. 58. Lymphangion is a morphofunctional unit of a lymphatic vessel:

1 – segment of the lymphatic vessel with valves.

Depending on the location above or below the superficial fascia, lymphatic vessels are divided into superficial and deep. Superficial lymphatic vessels lie in the subcutaneous fat above the superficial fascia. Most of them go to the lymph nodes located near the superficial veins.

There are also intraorgan and extraorgan lymphatic vessels. Due to the existence of numerous anastomoses, intraorgan lymphatic vessels form wide-loop plexuses. The lymphatic vessels emerging from these plexuses accompany the arteries, veins and exit the organ. Extraorgan lymphatic vessels are directed to nearby groups of regional lymph nodes, usually accompanying blood vessels, often veins.

Along the path of the lymphatic vessels there are The lymph nodes. This is what causes foreign particles, tumor cells, etc. are retained in one of the regional lymph nodes. The exceptions are some lymphatic vessels of the esophagus and, in isolated cases, some vessels of the liver, which flow into the thoracic duct, bypassing the lymph nodes.

Regional lymph nodes organs or tissues are lymph nodes that are the first on the path of lymphatic vessels carrying lymph from a given area of the body.

Lymphatic trunks- these are large lymphatic vessels that are no longer interrupted by lymph nodes. They collect lymph from several areas of the body or several organs.

There are four permanent paired lymphatic trunks in the human body.

Jugular trunk(right and left) is represented by one or several vessels of small length. It is formed from the efferent lymphatic vessels of the lower lateral deep cervical lymph nodes, located in a chain along the internal jugular vein. Each of them drains lymph from the organs and tissues of the corresponding sides of the head and neck.

Subclavian trunk(right and left) is formed from the fusion of the efferent lymphatic vessels of the axillary lymph nodes, mainly the apical ones. It collects lymph from the upper limb, from the walls of the chest and mammary gland.

Bronchomediastinal trunk(right and left) is formed mainly from the efferent lymphatic vessels of the anterior mediastinal and superior tracheobronchial lymph nodes. It carries lymph away from the walls and organs of the chest cavity.

The efferent lymphatic vessels of the upper lumbar lymph nodes form the right and left lumbar trunks, which drain lymph from the lower limb, walls and organs of the pelvis and abdomen.

A non-permanent intestinal lymphatic trunk occurs in approximately 25% of cases. It is formed from the efferent lymphatic vessels of the mesenteric lymph nodes and 1-3 vessels flow into the initial (abdominal) part of the thoracic duct.

Rice. 59. Basin of the thoracic lymphatic duct.

1 – superior vena cava;

2 – right brachiocephalic vein;

3 – left brachiocephalic vein;

4 – right internal jugular vein;

5 – right subclavian vein;

6 – left internal jugular vein;

7 – left subclavian vein;

8 – azygos vein;

9 – hemizygos vein;

10 – inferior vena cava;

11 – right lymphatic duct;

12 – cistern of the thoracic duct;

13 – thoracic duct;

14 – intestinal trunk;

15 – lumbar lymphatic trunks

The lymphatic trunks flow into two ducts: the thoracic duct (Fig. 59) and the right lymphatic duct, which flow into the veins of the neck in the area of the so-called venous angle, formed by the connection of the subclavian and internal jugular veins. The thoracic lymphatic duct flows into the left venous angle, through which lymph flows from 3/4 of the human body: from the lower extremities, pelvis, abdomen, left half of the chest, neck and head, left upper extremity. The right lymphatic duct flows into the right venous angle, which brings lymph from 1/4 of the body: from the right half of the chest, neck, head, and from the right upper limb.

Thoracic duct (ductus thoracicus) has a length of 30-45 cm, is formed at the level of the XI thoracic – 1st lumbar vertebrae by the fusion of the right and left lumbar trunks (trunci lumbales dexter et sinister). Sometimes at the beginning the thoracic duct has extension (cisterna chyli). The thoracic duct is formed in the abdominal cavity and passes into the chest cavity through the aortic opening of the diaphragm, where it is located between the aorta and the right medial crus of the diaphragm, the contractions of which help push lymph into the thoracic part of the duct. At the level of the VII cervical vertebra, the thoracic duct forms an arc and, going around the left subclavian artery, flows into the left venous angle or the veins that form it. At the mouth of the duct there is a semilunar valve that prevents blood from entering the duct from the vein. The left bronchomediastinal trunk (truncus bronchomediastinalis sinister), which collects lymph from the left half of the chest, flows into the upper part of the thoracic duct, as well as the left subclavian trunk (truncus subclavius sinister), which collects lymph from the left upper limb and the left jugular trunk (truncus jugularis sinister), which carries lymph from the left half of the head and neck.

Right lymphatic duct (ductus lymphaticus dexter) 1-1.5 cm long, is being formed at the fusion of the right subclavian trunk (truncus subclavius dexter), carrying lymph from the right upper limb, the right jugular trunk (truncus jugularis dexter), collecting lymph from the right half of the head and neck, the right bronchomediastinal trunk (truncus bronchomediastinalis dexter), bringing lymph from the right half of the chest. However, more often the right lymphatic duct is absent, and the trunks that form it flow into the right venous angle independently.

Lymph nodes of individual areas of the body.

Head and neck

In the head area there are many groups of lymph nodes (Fig. 60): occipital, mastoid, facial, parotid, submandibular, submental, etc. Each group of nodes receives lymphatic vessels from the area closest to its location.

Thus, the submandibular nodes lie in the submandibular triangle and collect lymph from the chin, lips, cheeks, teeth, gums, palate, lower eyelid, nose, submandibular and sublingual salivary glands. Lymph flows from the forehead, temple, upper eyelid, auricle, and walls of the external auditory canal into the parotid lymph nodes, located on the surface and in the thickness of the gland of the same name.

Fig.60. Lymphatic system of the head and neck.

1 – anterior ear lymph nodes; 2 – posterior ear lymph nodes; 3 – occipital lymph nodes; 4 – lower ear lymph nodes; 5 – buccal lymph nodes; 6 – mental lymph nodes; 7 – posterior submandibular lymph nodes; 8 – anterior submandibular lymph nodes; 9 – lower submandibular lymph nodes; 10 – superficial cervical lymph nodes

There are two main groups of lymph nodes in the neck: deep and superficial cervical. Deep cervical lymph nodes accompany the internal jugular vein in large numbers, and superficial ones lie near the external jugular vein. In these nodes, mainly in the deep cervical nodes, there is an outflow of lymph from almost all lymphatic vessels of the head and neck, including the efferent vessels of other lymph nodes in these areas.

Upper limb

There are two main groups of lymph nodes in the upper limb: ulnar and axillary. The ulnar nodes lie in the cubital fossa and receive lymph from some of the vessels of the hand and forearm. Through the efferent vessels of these nodes, lymph flows into the axillary nodes. The axillary lymph nodes are located in the fossa of the same name, one part of them lies superficially in the subcutaneous tissue, the other in the depths near the axillary arteries and veins. Lymph flows into these nodes from the upper limb, as well as from the mammary gland, from the superficial lymphatic vessels of the chest and the upper part of the anterior abdominal wall.

Thoracic cavity

In the chest cavity, the lymph nodes are located in the anterior and posterior mediastinum (anterior and posterior mediastinal), near the trachea (peritracheal), in the area of the tracheal bifurcation (tracheobronchial), at the gates of the lung (bronchopulmonary), in the lung itself (pulmonary), and also on the diaphragm (upper diaphragmatic), near the heads of the ribs (intercostal), near the sternum (periosternal), etc. Lymph flows from the organs and partially from the walls of the chest cavity into these nodes.

Lower limb

On the lower limb, the main groups of lymph nodes are popliteal and inguinal. The popliteal nodes are located in the fossa of the same name near the popliteal artery and vein. These nodes receive lymph from part of the lymphatic vessels of the foot and leg. The efferent vessels of the popliteal nodes carry lymph mainly to the inguinal nodes.

Inguinal lymph nodes are divided into superficial and deep. The superficial inguinal nodes lie below the inguinal ligament under the skin of the thigh on top of the fascia, and the deep inguinal nodes lie in the same area, but under the fascia near the femoral vein. Lymph flows into the inguinal lymph nodes from the lower limb, as well as from the lower half of the anterior abdominal wall, perineum, from the superficial lymphatic vessels of the gluteal region and lower back. From the inguinal lymph nodes, lymph flows into the external iliac nodes, which are related to the pelvic nodes.

In the pelvis, the lymph nodes are located, as a rule, along the blood vessels and have a similar name (Fig. 61). Thus, the external iliac, internal iliac and common iliac nodes lie near the arteries of the same name, and the sacral nodes lie on the pelvic surface of the sacrum, near the median sacral artery. Lymph from the pelvic organs flows mainly into the internal iliac and sacral lymph nodes.

Rice. 61. Lymph nodes of the pelvis and the vessels connecting them.

1 – uterus; 2 – right common iliac artery; 3 – lumbar lymph nodes; 4 – iliac lymph nodes; 5 – inguinal lymph nodes

Abdominal cavity

There are a large number of lymph nodes in the abdominal cavity. They are located along the blood vessels, including the vessels passing through the hilum of the organs. So, along the abdominal aorta and inferior vena cava near the lumbar spine there are up to 50 lymph nodes (lumbar). In the mesentery of the small intestine, along the branches of the superior mesenteric artery, there are up to 200 nodes (superior mesenteric). There are also lymph nodes: celiac (near the celiac trunk), left gastric (along the greater curvature of the stomach), right gastric (along the lesser curvature of the stomach), hepatic (in the area of the hilum of the liver), etc. Lymph from the organs flows into the lymph nodes of the abdominal cavity. located in this cavity, and partly from its walls. The lumbar lymph nodes also receive lymph from the lower extremities and pelvis. It should be noted that the lymphatic vessels of the small intestine are called lacteal, since lymph flows through them, containing fat absorbed in the intestine, which gives the lymph the appearance of a milky emulsion - hilus (hilus - milky juice).

The part of the vascular system that 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 lymphatic pathways. Stagnation of lymph leads to the accumulation of excretory products in tissues. To improve the drainage function of the lymphatic system, massage and special cleaning methods are prescribed.

Read in this article

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 large particles of protein and liquid easily penetrate from the intercellular space. Subsequently, they unite into vessels similar to veins, but with more permeable membranes and a developed valve apparatus.

Vessels from organs carry lymph to the nodes. In appearance, the lymphatic network is similar to beads. This structure arises due to alternating areas of narrowing and widening 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 (lymph is more concentrated), and the reverse flow is impossible due to the valves.

Nodes

They have many incoming vessels and 1 or 2 outgoing vessels. The shape is similar 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 of the immune system - lymphocytes.

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

The following elements penetrate the lymph:

water;
proteins (large molecules);
destroyed and tumor cells;
bacteria;
dust and smoke particles from the lungs;
fluid from the 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 responsible for cellular and humoral (with the help of special blood proteins) immunity;
retention of mechanical impurities, microbes and toxic compounds in the lymph node;
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 tissue fluid, which themselves cannot enter the blood vessels due to their size.

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

Lymph movement pattern

The initial absorption of tissue fluid occurs in organs through lymphatic capillaries. The resulting lymph enters the nodes through a network of vessels. Purified and saturated with lymphocytes, the fluid from the lymph node moves into the trunks and ducts. There are only two of them in the body:

thoracic - collects lymph from the left upper limb, left side of the head, chest and all parts of the body lying under the diaphragm;
right – contains fluid from the right arm, half of the head and chest.

The 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 penetrates into the venous blood.

To promote lymph, the simultaneous action of the following factors is required:

the pressure of the liquid that is formed in a continuous mode;
contraction of the smooth muscles of the blood vessels between the two valves - the muscular 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 found in various structures. What they have in common is that they all serve as a site for the formation of lymphocytes:

the thymus is located behind the sternum, ensures the maturation and “specialization” of T-lymphocytes;
bone marrow is present in the tubular bones of the limbs, pelvis, ribs, contains immature stem cells, from which blood cells are subsequently formed;
pharyngeal tonsils are located in the nasopharyngeal region, protect against microbes, and participate in hematopoiesis;
the appendix extends from the initial part of the large intestine, cleanses lymph, forms enzymes, hormones and bacteria involved in the digestion of food;
the spleen is 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 functioning of the bone marrow;
lymph nodes of internal organs (single or clusters) take part in the formation of cells for immune defense - T and B lymphocytes.

Types and groups of diseases

In diseases of the lymphatic system, inflammatory processes may occur:

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

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

Bone marrow dysfunction causes various changes in blood composition: cell deficiency with decreased immunity (), coagulation (), oxygen supply (anemia), malignant blood tumors.

An enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) occurs with diseases of the blood, liver, and typhoid fever. An abscess or cyst may also form in the tissue.

Stagnation of lymphatic fluid leads to the development of lymphedema (lymphoedema). It occurs when there is an obstruction in the vessels of a congenital (structural anomaly) or acquired nature. Secondary lymphedema accompanies injuries, burns, infections, and surgical interventions. As lymphostasis progresses, elephantiasis of the lower extremities occurs, requiring surgery.

Elephantiasis of the lower extremities

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

Causes of disorders in the body

Inflammatory and tumor processes occur when the immune system is disrupted, when it ceases to cope with the body’s defense function. This may be a consequence of external factors:

Chronic foci of infection in the body, as well as poor function of the excretory organs, contribute to excess load on the lymphatic system. The result is a decrease in its basic functions. Of no small importance for 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 cardiac activity) and venous (,);
physical inactivity, obesity;
diseases of the kidneys, liver, intestines;
congenital anomalies of the development of organs of the lymphatic system;
injuries and operations, burns.

Symptoms of the onset of diseases

When the movement of lymph is disrupted, swelling occurs in the lower extremities, especially after intense exercise. If treatment is not carried out at this stage, tissue swelling (lymphedema) becomes dense, heaviness in the legs, cramps and pain occurs.

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

Submandibular lymphadenitis

Diagnosis of the condition

In order to examine the patency of lymphatic vessels and the area of blocked outflow, the following methods are used:

Lymphography with X-ray control, CT or MRI determines valvular insufficiency and structural anomalies. A normal lymphogram has the appearance of uneven accumulations of contrast material in the form of beads.
Lymphoscintigraphy with technetium makes it possible to detect foci of radioisotope concentration in the area of lymph stagnation.
Ultrasound with – areas of vasoconstriction, changes in nodes.
Computer thermography is used for differential diagnosis with phlegmon, phlebitis and osteomyelitis.
Lymph node biopsy - reveals blood tumors and cancer metastases.
Blood tests - during inflammation, leukocytosis is noted; with culture, the causative agent of the infection can be determined.

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

Treatment Options

In the initial stages of lymph stagnation, predominantly non-drug methods are used - massage, magnetic therapy, wearing compression stockings. A good effect has been obtained from mechanical pneumocompression and laser treatment for diseases of the lymphatic vessels.

For severe lymphedema, the following is 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 ultraviolet irradiation of the blood can be used. At the stage of resorption or with low-grade inflammation, local compresses, dressings with Dimexide, Dioxidin, Chymotrypsin, and mud treatment are indicated.

The progression of lymph stagnation with the formation of elephantiasis of the extremities is treated by creating outflow tracts 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 the motor regime - the load should be at least 30 minutes; regular walking in nature and breathing exercises have a healing effect.

To accelerate the removal of metabolic products from the body and neutralize toxic compounds, use:

sauna (steam room, bathhouse);
a bath with warm water and sea salt;
saturating tissues with clean water;
restriction of dairy, meat products, white bread, starch;
juices from cherries, blackberries, grapes, cranberries;
fresh beet and red cabbage salad with lemon;
adding parsley and dill, lettuce and fresh garlic to food;
herbal tea from clover, elderflower, 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 - currants, blackberries, lingonberries and blueberries;
tincture similar to Swedish bitters - 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 by stroking the lymph flow. Since its movement occurs only from bottom to top, the massage movements should have a similar direction.

In this case, the following changes occur in tissues:

the movement of fluid from tissues into lymphatic capillaries accelerates;
swelling decreases,
Metabolic products are eliminated faster.

Pressure and compression work deeper into soft tissues, and vibration helps to enhance microcirculation. Massage is contraindicated in any acute process in the body, and especially in the presence of a purulent focus, since in these cases accelerated lymph flow will lead to the spread of damage to other organs and tissues.

The lymphatic system has a drainage function, participates in metabolic processes and the formation of cells of the immune system. When overexertion occurs (due to external factors or against the background of diseases), a malfunction of the immune system occurs, which contributes to inflammatory or tumor processes.

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