Lümfikanalid

Lümfikanalid are a crucial part of the lymphatic system, a network of vessels that transport lymph fluid throughout the body. These vessels are thin-walled and run parallel to veins and arteries. They begin as tiny, blind-ended capillaries in tissues, collecting excess interstitial fluid, also known as lymph.

As the lymph capillaries merge, they form larger lymphatic vessels. These vessels are characterized by the presence of valves, similar to those in veins, which prevent the backflow of lymph and ensure its unidirectional movement towards the heart. The lymphatic vessels are not a closed circuit like the circulatory system; instead, they begin in the tissues and eventually drain into the bloodstream.

The movement of lymph through these channels is primarily driven by muscle contractions, breathing movements, and the pulsation of nearby arteries. Along their course, lymphatic vessels pass through lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped organs that filter the lymph, removing foreign substances like bacteria, viruses, and abnormal cells. The lymph then continues its journey through progressively larger vessels, eventually emptying into the subclavian veins in the chest. Lümfikanalid play a vital role in fluid balance, immune defense, and the transport of fats absorbed from the digestive system.