The lymphatic System in Hodgkins Lymphoma

The lymphatic System in Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Introduction
Lymphatic System consists of the lymphatic vessels, lymph and lymph nodes, bone marrow and
organs like the spleen, tonsils, and thymus. It is involved in draining fluid from tissues,
absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and its main role is the promotion of the body’s immunity
through the production and development of lymphocytes. The lymphatic system acts as the first
line of defense in the body (inmate immunity).1
Lymph is milky in appearance due to fats absorbed into the lacteals and is the substance
transported within the lymphatic system. It carries away bacteria as well as cell debris from
tissues to lymph nodes. Lymphocytes and antibodies are within lymph and help in immune
surveillance. Lymph vessels are found all over the body except within the Central Nervous
System. They slow the entry of soluble substances and cells into the lymphatic system. Lymph
capillaries have greater permeability to interstitial fluid components than blood capillaries. The
lymph capillaries link to form larger lymph vessels that join forming the thoracic and right
lymphatic ducts which empty into the subclavian vein. Ducts eliminate fluid containing immune
activity by-products from zones of infection and inflammation. Lymph vessels contain valves
that help to ensure one direction flow of lymph. Adjacent muscle contract to push the lymph
along. Lymph passes to the lymph nodes. These are found throughout the body. Lymph nodes
exist as grape-lie clusters and filter waste and debris from lymph ducts. It is cells within lymph
nodes that neutralize and degrade these substances. Lymphocytes occur in the lymph nodes as
well and protect against pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. Macrophages and antibodies are
also present in lymph nodes. The spleen is important for blood storage, fetal blood cell
production as well as the destruction of erythrocytes. In immunity, spleen caries out
phagocytosis of microbes and contains T and B-lymphocytes are activated in times of disease.
Lymphocytes enter the thymus and mature being able to distinguish self and foreign antigens. It
is from the thymus that T-lymphocytes are produced into the bloodstream.