LYMPHATIC VESSEL Meaning and
Definition
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A lymphatic vessel refers to a tubular structure that is part of the lymphatic system in the human body. The lymphatic system is responsible for maintaining fluid balance, fighting against infections, and aiding in the absorption of fats from the digestive system. Lymphatic vessels play a crucial role in this system by transporting lymph fluid, a clear and watery substance that contains immune cells and waste products, throughout the body.
These vessels resemble blood vessels but are thinner and more delicate. They form an extensive network that reaches every tissue and organ in the body. Lymphatic vessels have unique characteristics such as having thin walls, valves to prevent backflow, and small fluid-filled spaces called lymphatic capillaries. Lymphatic capillaries collect excess interstitial fluid and waste products from the body's tissues, which then merge into larger lymphatic vessels.
The lymphatic vessels eventually converge to form larger lymphatic ducts, such as the thoracic duct, which drains into the bloodstream near the heart. Along the lymphatic vessels, small nodules called lymph nodes are scattered and act as filters, trapping bacteria, viruses, cancer cells, and other harmful substances before the lymph fluid returns to the bloodstream.
Lymphatic vessels are vital for maintaining immunity and protecting the body against infections. They also contribute to the overall function of the circulatory system by aiding in the fluid balance and the removal of waste products.
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Vas lymphaticum, lymphangion.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LYMPHATIC VESSEL
- kymphatic vessel
- pymphatic vessel
- oymphatic vessel
- ltmphatic vessel
- lgmphatic vessel
- lhmphatic vessel
- lumphatic vessel
- l7mphatic vessel
- l6mphatic vessel
- lynphatic vessel
- lykphatic vessel
- lyjphatic vessel
- lymohatic vessel
- lymlhatic vessel
- lym-hatic vessel
- lym0hatic vessel
- lympgatic vessel
- lympbatic vessel
- lympnatic vessel
Etymology of LYMPHATIC VESSEL
The word "lymphatic" is derived from the Latin word "lympha", which means "clear spring water" or "pure water". It is believed to have originated from the Greek word "nymphē", which refers to goddesses of fresh water in Greek mythology. The term "vessel" comes from the Latin word "vasculum", meaning "a small container or tube". Thus, the term "lymphatic vessel" refers to a tube or container that carries lymph, a clear fluid found in the lymphatic system.
Similar spelling words for LYMPHATIC VESSEL
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