The lymphatic system collects and drains away excess fluid that has passed from the blood into tissues. It also carries cells that fight infection by helping to stop disease-causing germs, called pathogens, from spreading around the body.

All body tissues are bathed in a watery liquid that comes from the surrounding blood vessels. Most of it drains back into the veins, but the rest becomes a clear fluid called lymph. This is transported along a network of vessels, called lymphatics, back to the bloodstream. The lymph passes through lymph nodes, which contain cells that target and destroy germs in the lymph fluid.

Many conditions can affect the vessels, glands, and organs that make up the lymphatic system.

Some happen during development before birth or during childhood. Others develop as a result of disease or injury.

 

Picture Credit : Google