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The lymphatic system is a crucial part of the body's immune system, operating as a one-way transport network. It collects excess tissue fluid and returns it to the bloodstream, consisting of lymph capillaries, vessels, and organs. Fluid is directed through one-way valves, transforming blood plasma into tissue fluid and then lymph. Lymph nodes play a vital role in filtering this lymph, with macrophages engulfing pathogens to clean up the fluid, while lymphocytes monitor for infections. Swollen lymph nodes often indicate the presence of infections, highlighting the system's importance in immune response.
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The Lymphatic System • Unlike circulatory system, one-way only • Collects tissue fluid, returns to blood • Consists of a series of lymph capillaries, lymphatic vessels, and lymphatic organs • Fluid directed by one-way valves • Blood plasma tissue fluid lymph • Lymph nodes filter fluid as it passes • Macrophages engulf pathogens, clean up • Lymphocytes “watch” for pathogens also • Infections lead to swollen lymph nodes