Lymfkärlsstammen

Lymfkärlsstammen, also known as the lymphatic trunk, refers to the main collecting vessels of the lymphatic system. These are large lymphatic vessels that are formed by the confluence of smaller lymphatic vessels. They are responsible for draining lymph from specific regions of the body and ultimately emptying it into the bloodstream.

There are typically two main lymphatic trunks in the human body: the thoracic duct and the right lymphatic duct. The thoracic duct is the larger of the two, collecting lymph from the entire left side of the body and the lower right side, and empties into the junction of the left subclavian vein and the left internal jugular vein. The right lymphatic duct collects lymph from the upper right quadrant of the body and empties into the junction of the right subclavian vein and the right internal jugular vein.

The lymphatic trunks play a crucial role in fluid balance, immune surveillance, and fat absorption. They transport lymph, which contains lymphocytes, proteins, fats, and waste products, back to the circulatory system. Lymph nodes are strategically located along the pathways of lymphatic vessels, including the trunks, where they filter lymph and house immune cells that fight infection and disease. Blockage or damage to these trunks can lead to lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling due to the accumulation of lymph fluid.