Imeitymisjärjestelmän

Imeitymisjärjestelmän, often referred to as the lymphatic system in English, is a network of vessels, tissues, and organs that work together to move colorless, watery fluid called lymph back into the bloodstream. This system is crucial for maintaining fluid balance in the body, absorbing fats from the digestive system, and playing a vital role in the immune system.

The lymphatic system includes lymph vessels, which are similar to blood vessels, and lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped structures that filter lymph. Major organs associated with the lymphatic system include the spleen, thymus, tonsils, and adenoids. Lymph originates from blood plasma that leaks out of capillaries into the body's tissues. This fluid, now called interstitial fluid, bathes the cells. Most of this fluid returns to the blood capillaries, but the remainder enters the lymphatic vessels.

Once inside the lymphatic vessels, the fluid is called lymph. Lymph is transported through the body by the contraction of surrounding muscles and the pulsing of nearby arteries. As lymph flows through the lymph nodes, it is filtered to remove foreign particles, bacteria, and other pathogens. Immune cells, such as lymphocytes, are abundant in lymph nodes and are responsible for identifying and destroying these harmful substances. The lymphatic system also absorbs dietary fats in the small intestine, transporting them to the bloodstream. Dysfunction of the lymphatic system can lead to lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling caused by fluid accumulation.