1.

4 The Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system is connected to
circulatory system via the subclavian
veins in the shoulders.

Acts to complement the circulatory system

in transport.
 Formation of the Interstitial Fluid
• High hydrostatic pressure in the
capillaries force the plasma to pass across
the one-cell thick capillary walls to the
space between the cells.

• The fluid fills up the space between the

cells is called interstitial fluid.
The Composition of the Interstitial Fluid
and Lymph
Similar in composition to blood plasma
except there are no:
a) erythrocytes
b) platelets cannot pass via the
capillary walls
c) plasma proteins

However ,leucocytes like phagocytes can

squeeze into the fine pore between the
capillary walls and pass via it.
Structure of the lymphatic vessel

• 1)lymph
capillaries
• 2)lymphatic
vessels
• 3)lymph nodes
• 4)spleen
• 5)thymus
The Relationship between the lymphatic system and
circulatory system

• Lymph is returned to the circulatory

system via the ________ ______ and
the _______ ________ _______.
Role of the lymphatic system in transport
• Collects the interstitial fluid and
returns it to the circulatory system.

• Fats and fat-soluble vitamins are

absorbed through lacteals and
transported to the blood
circulatory system.
• The lymph nodes filter out bacteria
and other foreign particles.

• Lymphocytes produce
______which aid in the destruction
of pathogens and neutralization of
toxins.
The flow of lymph is aided by a few
factors such as:
• Contraction of smooth muscles in the wall
of the lymphatic vessels

• Contraction of the skeletal muscles when

body moves.

• Peristalsis movement in the alimentary

canal
• Breathing movement

• The pulses in the blood vessels

• Within lymphatic vessels are one-way
valves to ensure the continuous flow of
the lymph to prevent the backflow of the
lymph.