Clinical Insights into the Lymphatic System- Functions and Disorders

Abstract

Lymphatics play a crucial role in defense mechanism of the body, but there is a wide array of conditions that directly or indirectly alter lymphatics. Lymphatic disease may manifest as imbalance in body fluid homeostasis, immunity impairment, and irregularities in fluid reabsorption. Lymphadenopathy is a major clinical manifestation associated with infection, inflammation, autoimmune disease and malignancy. It is indicative of systemic infection or disease when there is involvement of specific lymph nodes. Lymphatic vessels, constitute the secondary circulatory system in human body after blood circulation, and plays a significant role in maintaining homeostasis throughout the body. They are responsible for absorption and transport of lymph, the immune defense.