Lymphgefäßen

Lymphgefäße, also known as lymphatic vessels, form a crucial part of the lymphatic system. This network of tubes and vessels extends throughout the body, working in conjunction with the circulatory system. The primary function of lymphgefäße is to transport lymph, a clear to whitish fluid containing white blood cells which are lymphocytes, throughout the body. This fluid originates from the interstitial fluid that surrounds cells in tissues. As this fluid enters the lymphgefäße, it is called lymph.

The lymphgefäße begin as tiny, blind-ended capillaries in the tissues. These capillaries gradually merge to form larger vessels. These larger vessels eventually converge into two main lymphatic ducts: the thoracic duct and the right lymphatic duct. These ducts then empty the collected lymph back into the bloodstream, typically at the subclavian veins near the neck. Along the course of the lymphgefäße are lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped organs that filter the lymph, removing waste products, pathogens, and abnormal cells.

The lymphatic system, and by extension the lymphgefäße, plays a vital role in maintaining fluid balance by returning excess interstitial fluid to the blood. It is also essential for the immune system, as it transports lymphocytes and facilitates their interaction with foreign substances. Furthermore, lymphgefäße are involved in the absorption of fats from the digestive system. Any disruption to the normal function of lymphgefäße can lead to swelling (edema) and impaired immune response.