The lymphatic system is a network of conduits carrying a clear fluid called lymph. It includes the lymphoid tissue, lymph nodes and lymphoid follicles. The lymphatic system is a major contributor to assist the immune system in our bodies.
Besides other interrelated functions, the lymphatic system is responsible for the the production of immune cells, such as lymphocytes, antibody producing plasma cells and monocytes. Lymphatic drainage of various organs is important in treatment and diagnosis of immune system diseases.
The lymphatic system, because of its physical proximity to many tissues of the body, is responsible for carrying diseased cells between the various parts of the body in a process called metastasis. Lymph nodes trap diseased cells, but if they do not successfully destroy these cells, the nodes may become sites for pathological infection.
