Lymphatic System

A major function of the **lymphatic system** is to drain the excess fluid and empty it back into the bloodstream via a series of vessels, trunks, and ducts. The lymphatic vessels begin as open-ended capillaries, which feed into larger and larger lymphatic vessels. Along the way, the lymph travels through the lymph nodes, which are commonly found near the groin, armpits, neck, chest, and abdomen. Lymphatic vessels in the arms and legs convey lymph to the larger lymphatic vessels in the torso. Lymph is not actively pumped by the heart, but is forced through the vessels by the movements of the body, the contraction of skeletal muscles during body movements, and breathing. One-way valves (semi-lunar valves) in lymphatic vessels keep the lymph moving toward the heart. Lymph flows from the lymphatic capillaries, through lymphatic vessels, and then is dumped into the circulatory system via the lymphatic ducts located at the junction of the jugular and subclavian veins in the neck.



*LICENSES AND ATTRIBUTIONS

CC licensed content, Shared previously, Donna Browne, Immune System Module 1: Anatomy of the Lymphatic and Immune Systems, Authored by: OpenStax College. License: CC BY: Attribution. License Terms: Download for free at:http://cnx.org/contents/XuVQoXkr@1/Immune-System-Module-1--Anatom*

## Keywords
lymphatic system lymph sap flow tonsils thymus blood vessel capillaries inguinal lymph nodes thoracic spleen axillary