limfatic

Limfatic is an adjective used in several languages to denote matters related to the lymphatic system or the lymph. It appears in medical terminology and body system descriptions as a vernacular label for structures, fluids, and processes involved in lymph transport and immunity.

Anatomy and physiology: The lymphatic system comprises lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, and lymphoid organs such as the spleen and thymus. Lymph, the fluid transported by these vessels, circulates from tissues back to the bloodstream, aided by contractions of smooth muscle and nearby movement. The system supports immune surveillance by housing lymphocytes and filtering pathogens in lymph nodes. It also participates in dietary fat absorption through intestinal lacteals.

Clinical relevance: Disruptions of the limfatic system can lead to lymphedema, where fluid accumulates in tissues; lymphangitis, an infection of lymphatic vessels; or lymphadenopathy, enlarged nodes. Malignancies such as lymphoma arise from lymphocytes. Diagnostic approaches include physical examination, ultrasound, and lymphoscintigraphy; treatment may involve compression therapy, manual lymph drainage, exercise, infection management, and, in some cases, surgical options.

Terminology and usage: The English term is 'lymphatic.' 'Limfatic' appears in Turkish, Indonesian, and other languages as the cognate form. When writing in English, the standard term to refer to related anatomy and physiology is 'lymphatic system' or 'lymphatic vessels.'