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How does the lymph circulate through body?

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, tissues, and organs that help transport lymph, a clear fluid containing white blood cells and other immune system cells, throughout the body. Here's how lymph circulates through the body:

1. Fluid Filtration: Lymph is formed when excess fluid, proteins, and waste products from tissues and organs leak out of the capillaries (tiny blood vessels) into the surrounding interstitial spaces. This fluid is called interstitial fluid.

2. Lymphatic Capillaries: The lymphatic system begins with lymphatic capillaries, which are microscopic vessels present in almost all body tissues. These capillaries are highly permeable, allowing interstitial fluid (now called lymph) to enter the lymphatic system.

3. Lymph Vessels: Lymph capillaries merge to form larger lymph vessels, which transport lymph away from tissues. The vessels have one-way valves to ensure lymph flows in one direction, toward the heart.

4. Lymph Nodes: Lymph flows through lymph nodes, which are bean-shaped organs located throughout the body. These nodes act as filters, trapping and removing debris, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances from the lymph.

5. Spleen: Lymph from the abdominal organs, except the liver and kidneys, is filtered through the spleen. The spleen removes damaged red blood cells, pathogens, and other foreign particles.

6. Thoracic Duct and Right Lymphatic Duct: The thoracic duct is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body. It receives lymph from the arms, head, neck, chest, and abdomen. The right lymphatic duct collects lymph from the right arm and the upper-right part of the body. Both ducts empty into the subclavian veins near the heart.

7. Recirculation into Bloodstream: Once the lymph has been filtered through lymph nodes and other lymphoid organs, it reenters the bloodstream via the subclavian veins. This completes the lymphatic circulation, ensuring a continual flow of lymph throughout the body and providing immune protection.

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