Nyirokvezeték

Nyirokvezeték, the English term lymph vessel, is a component of the lymphatic system that transports lymph—a clear fluid carrying white blood cells, waste products, and fats—throughout the body. These vessels arise from specialized lymph capillaries situated between cells in connective tissue and progressively enlarge into larger collecting lymphatics that ultimately converge into the thoracic duct and right lymphatic duct. Structurally, nyirokvezeték walls are composed of flattened endothelium, smooth muscle segments, and valves that prevent backflow, allowing efficient unidirectional flow under low pressure.

The primary physiological role of the lymphatic vessel network is to maintain fluid homeostasis by returning interstitial fluid and proteins to the bloodstream, thereby preventing edema. In addition, it serves as a critical conduit for immune surveillance, transporting antigen‑carrying dendritic cells and lymphocytes to regional lymph nodes where adaptive immune responses are activated. The vessels also absorb dietary fats via specialized lacteals in the intestinal villi, channeling them into the bloodstream as chylomicrons.

Clinical disorders of nyirokvezeték include lymphedema, a chronic swelling caused by impaired lymph return, and lymphangitis, an inflammation that can arise from bacterial infection. Congenital anomalies, such as lymphangiomatosis, and acquired conditions, such as trauma or cancer surgery, may disrupt normal vessel function. Accurate imaging (e.g., lymphoscintigraphy) and imaging enhancement techniques are crucial for diagnosing and managing these conditions. Understanding the anatomy and physiology of nyirokvezeték is essential for clinicians, biomedical researchers, and students studying the immune, circulatory, and metabolic systems.