Lymphatiska

Lymphatiska is the Swedish adjective for lymphatic. In English, lymphatic describes the system of vessels, nodes, and organs that transport lymph, a clear fluid derived from interstitial tissue. The lymphatic system helps maintain fluid balance, supports immune defense, and assists the absorption of dietary fats via specialized vessels in the gut known as lacteals.

Lymph is carried from tissues by blind-ended lymphatic capillaries that merge into larger collecting vessels. These vessels form a network that ultimately drains into two main ducts: the thoracic duct, which collects lymph from most of the body, and the right lymphatic duct, which drains the right upper quadrant. Lymph nodes along the vessels filter lymph and host immune cells; secondary lymphoid organs include the spleen and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, as well as the thymus where T cells mature.

Lymphatic flow relies on valves, smooth muscle in the vessel walls, and rhythmic contractions of surrounding muscles, as well as breathing movements. Unlike the blood circulatory system, the lymphatic system lacks a central pump. Dysfunction can lead to lymphedema, and lymphatics can disseminate infections and metastasis of cancer cells. Clinically important conditions include node enlargement and lymphedema after surgery or radiation.

Diagnosis and management involve imaging methods such as lymphangiography or lymphoscintigraphy, together with compression therapy, manual lymph drainage, exercise, and, where appropriate, surgical interventions to restore drainage.