The location of the lymphatic vessels on the face. Location of lymph nodes on the face

Lymph is the body's fluid tissue contained in the lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels. In the human body, lymph is formed in the amount of 2-4 liters per day. it clear liquid, the density of which reaches 1.026. The reaction of the lymph is alkaline, it is pH 7.35-9.0. This liquid helps to maintain and is able to flush out pathological microorganisms from the tissues.

The composition of the lymph

This liquid tissue circulates in the vessels of the lymphatic system and is found in almost all organs. Most of all it is in organs with high permeability of blood vessels: in the liver, spleen, skeletal muscles, and also in the heart.

It is worth noting that its composition is not constant, since it depends on the organs and tissues from which it flows. The main constituents can be called water, decomposition products organic compounds, lymphocytes and leukocytes. Unlike tissue fluid, lymph has a higher protein content. Her chemical composition resembles but its viscosity is lower.

Lymph also contains anions, enzymes and vitamins. In addition, it contains substances that increase blood clotting ability. When small blood vessels (capillaries) are damaged, the number of lymphocytes increases. Also in the lymph there is a small amount of monocytes and granulocytes.

It is worth noting that human lymph is devoid of platelets, but it can coagulate because it contains fibrinogen. In this case, a loose yellow clot is formed. In addition, factors humoral immunity(lysozyme, properdin), as well as complement, although the bactericidal ability of lymph is much lower than that of blood.

The meaning of lymph

The following main functions of lymph can be noted:

The return of electrolytes, proteins and water from the interstitial space to bloodstream;

Normal lymphatic circulation ensures the formation of the most concentrated urine;

Lymph carries many substances that are absorbed in the digestive organs, including fats;

Certain enzymes (such as lipase or histaminase) can only enter the blood through the lymphatic system (metabolic function);

Lymph takes erythrocytes from tissues, which accumulate there after injuries, as well as toxins and bacteria (protective function);

It provides communication between organs and tissues, as well as the lymphoid system and blood;

Maintenance of a constant microenvironment of cells, i.e. homeostatic function.

In addition, lymphocytes and antibodies are formed in the lymph nodes, which take part in the body's immune response. At oncological diseases The lymph is the main route for the spread of cancer cells.

It should be noted that lymph, tissue fluid and blood are closely related, therefore they provide homeostasis.

Lymph formation

This process is based on filtration, diffusion, osmosis and the difference in hydrostatic pressure, which is recorded in the capillaries and in interstitial fluid.

How is lymph formed? In this process, the degree of permeability of the lymphatic vessels is of great importance. Yes, the particles various sizes pass through the walls of the lymphatic capillaries in two main ways:

1. Intercellular, when highly dispersed particles pass through the intercellular gaps, the size of which reaches 10 nm - 10 microns.

2. Through the endothelium, such transport of substances is associated with their direct movement with the help of micropinocytic vesicles and blisters.

It is worth noting that these paths work simultaneously.

If you answer the question “how is lymph formed”, it is worth remembering about oncotic pressure. So, high blood promotes the formation of lymph, and high oncotic pressure inhibits this process. The filtration of the fluid takes place in the capillaries, while it returns to the venous bed, since there is a pressure difference at the venous and arterial ends of the capillaries.

It should be noted that the permeability of lymphocapillaries varies depending on functional state organs, as well as under the influence of various mechanical, chemical, as well as humoral or nervous factors. The rate of formation of lymph and its volume depend on the relationship between systemic and lymphatic circulation. So, if the minute volume of blood circulation is 6 liters, then 15 ml of fluid is filtered through the blood capillaries, 12 ml of which is reabsorbed back, but 5 ml remains in the interstitial space, after which it returns to circulatory system through the lymphatics.

To better understand how and where lymph is formed, you should know the structural features of the lymphatic system.

Features of the organization of the lymphatic system

The initial link is They are located in all tissues and organs. They are not only in the head and spinal cord, eyeballs and in inner ear, as well as in the epithelium of the skin, in the spleen, bone marrow, placenta.

Lymphocapillaries are able to unite, forming lymphocapillary networks and larger lymphatic vessels, which have three membranes:

Internal - consists of cells called endotheliocytes;

Medium - contains cells of smooth muscle tissue;

External - connective tissue sheath.

It should be noted that the lymphatic vessels have valves. Thanks to them, the movement of lymph occurs only in one direction - from the periphery to the center. As a rule, lymphatic vessels from muscles and organs exit with blood vessels and are called deep.

important constituent elements of the lymphatic system are the lymph nodes. They act as a filter and provide the immune defense of the body. Lymph nodes are located near large blood vessels, as a rule, in groups, they can be superficial or located in internal cavities organism. They accumulate and remove viruses and bacteria, as well as foreign particles from the body. At excessive load the lymph nodes enlarge and become painful, which indicates excessive pollution of the lymph. Lymph nodes in the groin tend to swell with infection in the pelvis or legs. The inflammatory process may also be associated with allergic reactions, presence benign cysts or after muscle strain.

It must be said that in the lymphatic system there are also specific lymph trunks and straits through which the outflow of lymph from various parts body and internal organs.

Features of lymph movement

Approximately 180 ml of lymph enters the lymphatic vessels per hour, up to 4 liters of this fluid can pass through the thoracic lymphatic duct per day. Subsequently, it returns to the general bloodstream. Knowing how lymph is formed, it is worth familiarizing yourself with how it moves through the body.

Since lymph is formed in the lymphatic capillaries, more intensive filtration of fluid from the blood small vessels leads to an acceleration of its formation and to an increase in the speed of its movement. Among the factors that increase lymph formation, the following should be mentioned:

High hydrostatic pressure in capillaries;

High functional activity organs;

High capillary permeability;

Introduction of hypertonic solutions.

The main role in the processes of lymph movement is assigned to the creation of primary hydrostatic pressure. It promotes the movement of the bodice from the lymphatic capillaries towards the outlet vessels.

What ensures its further movement? Lymph is formed from tissue fluid. At the same time, the main force that contributes to its movement from the place of formation to the flow into the veins of the neck is the rhythmic contraction of lymphangions.

Features of the structure of lymphangions. Other mechanisms for moving lymph

Lymphangion is a tubular formation with valves and a muscular "cuff". These formations can be called a kind of lymphatic hearts. So, lymph accumulates in them, which leads to stretching of the “cuff”. In this case, the distal valve of the lymphangion closes, and the proximal valve, on the contrary, opens. As a result of this, the lymph moves to the next lymphangion (and so on until it flows into the venous system).

If we talk about the structure of the walls of lymphangions, then they are represented by adrenergic fibers that modulate spontaneous rhythmic contractions. The smooth muscles of the lymphangion are also capable of contraction, which leads to an increase in pressure in the lymphatic vessels and to the flow of lymph into the bloodstream. This process can be influenced by certain hormones, biologically active substances (for example, histamine), as well as changes in the concentration of metabolic compounds and high temperature.

The described mechanism of lymph movement is the main one, but there are also secondary factors. So, when you inhale, the lymph flows from the thoracic lymphatic duct more intensively, and when you exhale, this process slows down. Due to the movements of the diaphragm, the cisterns of this strait are periodically compressed and stretched, which contributes to the further movement of the lymph.

The intensity of the lymphatic flow is also affected by the rhythmic contraction of the organs (heart and intestines), which leads to a more active transition of tissue fluid into the lumen of the capillaries. The contractions of the skeletal muscles that surround the lymphatic vessels are also capable of squeezing out the lymph, since they contribute to its mechanical movement, and also increase the contractility of the lymphangions that are located in the muscle fiber. Due to this, the movement of lymph through the vessels is accelerated.

Stagnation in the lymphatic system

Insufficiency of lymphatic circulation is a violation of the formation or movement of lymph. Many diseases are accompanied by disorders in the functioning of the lymphatic system, which is often crucial in the progression of the pathological process.

In case of insufficiency of lymphatic circulation, the lymph cannot cope with its main task - the removal of metabolites from the tissues of the body with sufficient speed. In this case, mechanical insufficiency of lymphatic circulation can be of a general or regional nature.

Lymph stasis is manifested by various symptoms, which depends on a number of factors:

From the zone in which lymphostasis develops;

From the features of the lymphatic network;

From the age of the patient;

From the speed with which lymphatic insufficiency develops.

Violation of the lymph flow leads to the accumulation of toxic products. When the lymphatic vessels are damaged, blood clots occur, which, as a rule, consist of leukocytes and fibrin. They linger so they don't pose a threat.

It should be noted that lymphostasis is especially dangerous when infectious pathologies and malignant diseases, since it causes the generalization of the lesion and the appearance of retrograde metastases (spread against the flow of lymph).

Edema is a common clinical manifestation of lymph circulation insufficiency. Lymph stagnation is accompanied by tissue hypoxia, impaired metabolic processes and water-electrolyte balance, as well as dystrophic and sclerotic phenomena. With a general stagnation of the lymph, varicose changes in the lymphatic vessels develop, hypertrophy of their muscle fibers, as well as intin sclerosis, changes in valves.

Violation of the coagulation ability of the lymph

It is known that the lymph contains almost all components that are responsible for the processes of coagulation, anticoagulation and fibrinolysis, therefore, intravascular coagulation is characteristic not only of blood vessels, but also of lymphatic vessels. At the same time, tissue coagulation factors affect not only hemostasis, but also vascular permeability and interstitial transport of tissue fluid. At the same time, the mechanisms that cause blood clotting can provoke similar phenomena in the lymphatic capillaries, vessels and nodes.

It should be noted that the relationship between the various components of blood and lymph has been little studied, but it is known that various pathological processes able to affect lymph clotting in different ways. So, with the introduction of heterogeneous blood, the ability of the lymph to coagulate disappears, since the amount of natural anticoagulants increases. It is assumed that a significant amount of anticoagulants in this case is formed in the liver, and the lymph only transports them into the blood.

Almost nothing is known about the violation of lymph coagulation during the development of thrombosis. There are experimental data that confirm that quantitative changes in the blood and lymph may differ slightly, but their direction is identical. In addition, it is known that thrombosis is accompanied by a slight slowdown in lymph flow from the drained thoracic lymphatic duct, and the formation of a venous thrombus is accompanied by pronounced changes both in blood and lymph. This pattern indicates that there is every reason not only to theoretically study the features of coagulation processes in the lymphatic system, but also to use them in clinical practice.

Lymph cleansing: indications

In case of violation of the normal functioning of the lymphatic system, a significant amount of harmful compounds accumulate in the intercellular space. In this case, the lymph is polluted, which leads to the development of lymphostasis. This state accompanied by an increase in the load on the organs, especially the liver, kidneys and intestines. To prevent the damaging effects of toxins, it is necessary to provide lymphatic drainage and a constant outflow of interstitial fluid.

Indications for cleaning the lymphatic system are the following conditions:

Insufficient due to disturbances in the liver and intestines (hepatitis, colitis, dysbacteriosis, constipation and bile stasis);

Frequent colds;

Chronic infection pelvic organs (for example, cystitis, adnexitis or endometritis);

Intestinal infections or other pathologies that are accompanied by significant intoxication;

Skin diseases;

Allergic lesions (for example, neurodermatitis, eczema or atopic dermatitis);

Conditions accompanied by massive tissue damage and absorption of decay products into the bloodstream (injuries, burns and fractures);

Circulatory disorders due to blood loss, thrombosis, embolism;

Endocrine pathologies, especially obesity, diabetes and thyroid pathology.

The main methods of cleansing the lymph

Before cleaning the lymph, you should consult a doctor who will determine possible contraindications and help you choose the best option.

Method number 1. It gives positive results in arthrosis and arthritis, which occur with the formation of edema, the indication is also ischemic heart disease, chronic thrombophlebitis and respiratory lesions, osteochondrosis. Cannot be applied this technique with an allergy to citrus fruits, as well as if the patient has diabetes mellitus.

You need to take 900 ml of orange juice, the same amount of grapefruit juice, and 200 ml of fresh lemon juice. All this should be diluted with 2 liters of melt water. Do not have breakfast in the morning, make an enema of 2 liters of water, in which you must first add 2 tbsp. l. apple cider vinegar. After setting the enema, you should drink 100 ml of water, in which it is diluted, immediately take a hot shower, then drink 200 ml of a pre-prepared mixture of citrus juices and melt water. In the future, you should drink all 4 liters of this mixture (in portions, 100 ml every half hour).

Cleansing the lymph by this method must be carried out for three days. It should be remembered that after this it is impossible to suddenly switch to the usual diet, the diet should be expanded gradually. It is recommended to drink juices, eat fruits, boiled vegetables and cereals.

Method number 2. It helps to cleanse the lymph, remove toxins and saturate the body with vitamins. Should be done in the morning cleansing enema. Then you need to eat one grated lemon with steamed zest, combined with honey and fruit sugar. Every day you need to use one lemon more, bringing the amount to 15. Then their number should be reduced, eating 1 less lemon every day.

Method number 3. You need to take lemons, beets, carrots, pomegranates (all 2 kg each), squeeze the juice, mix with honey and take 50 ml on an empty stomach for 10 days, then take a five-day break. Repeat such courses until the end of the prepared mixture, which should be stored in the refrigerator with a tightly closed lid.

Method number 4. Tibetan doctors it is recommended to cleanse the lymph as follows. You need to take 200 ml fresh juice carrots and beets in a ratio of 4:1 daily before meals. At the same time, an infusion of celandine should be taken according to the appropriate scheme: on an empty stomach in the morning - 1 drop, before lunch - 2 drops, in the evening for dinner - 3 drops, etc., bringing the dose to 15 drops, and then reducing the amount of infusion to the initial dosage ( up to 1 drop).

To prepare this infusion, celandine grass should be crushed and squeezed out the juice, then strain it. After that, for every 450 mg of juice, add 70 ml of alcohol. The resulting infusion should be stored in the refrigerator.

It should be noted that this method cleaning the lymphatic system is also beneficial in patients with hypertension, diseases of the digestive system, psoriasis, hemorrhoids, osteochondrosis.

Conclusion

To summarize, we can say that lymph is a fluid that surrounds and washes all cells. human body. The primary task of the lymph is to clean tissues and organs from decay products. Lymph circulation is closely related to blood circulation and ensures optimal physical state human and a high level of his vital energy.

How is lymph formed? As mentioned above, this is a rather complex process that goes through several schemes and depends on many factors. Cleansing the body due to lymph is that it takes away excess liquid, as well as metabolic products from the intercellular space, and transfers them to the lymph nodes, which are "filtration stations". In addition, lymph performs a protective function, as it helps to get rid of foreign agents and pathogenic microbes.

Lymph is an important regulator of metabolic processes in the body, as well as a factor good nutrition cells. In cases of violation of the formation of lymph or a slowdown in its circulation, stagnation of the intercellular fluid develops, which leads to the appearance of edema. It should also be noted that the slow circulation of the lymph leads to the appearance of excessive fatigue, as well as to the inertia of the vital important processes which can lead to various diseases and premature aging cells.

Lymphatic system - an integral part of the vascular system that drains tissues by forming lymph and conducting it into the venous bed (additional drainage system).

Up to 2 liters of lymph are produced per day, which corresponds to 10% of the volume of fluid that is not reabsorbed after filtration in the capillaries.

Lymph is a fluid that fills the vessels of the lymphatic channel and nodes. It, like blood, belongs to the tissues of the internal environment and performs trophic and protective function. In its properties, despite the great similarity with blood, lymph differs from it. At the same time, lymph is not identical to the tissue fluid from which it is formed.

Lymph is made up of plasma and shaped elements. Its plasma contains proteins, salts, sugar, cholesterol and other substances. The protein content in the lymph is 8-10 times less than in the blood. 80% of the formed elements of the lymph are lymphocytes, and the remaining 20% are the share of other white blood cells. There are no normal erythrocytes in the lymph.

Functions of the lymphatic system:

Tissue drainage.

Ensuring continuous fluid circulation and metabolism in human organs and tissues. Prevents the accumulation of fluid in the tissue space with increased filtration in the capillaries.

Lymphopoiesis.

Transports fats away from the site of absorption in the small intestine.

Removal from the interstitial space of substances and particles that are not reabsorbed in the blood capillaries.

Spread of infection and malignant cells(tumor metastasis)

Factors that ensure the movement of lymph

Filtration pressure (due to the filtration of fluid from the blood capillaries into the intercellular space).

Permanent formation of lymph.

Availability of valves.

Contraction of the surrounding skeletal muscles and muscle elements of the internal organs (they squeeze the lymphatic vessels and the lymph moves in the direction determined by the valves).

The location of large lymphatic vessels and trunks near the blood vessels (the pulsation of the artery squeezes the walls of the lymphatic vessels and helps the lymph flow).

Suction action chest and negative pressure in the brachiocephalic veins.

Smooth muscle cells in the walls of lymphatic vessels and trunks .

Table 7

Similarities and differences in the structure of the lymphatic and venous systems

Lymph capillaries- thin-walled vessels, the diameter of which (10-200 microns) exceeds the diameter of blood capillaries (8-10 microns). The lymphatic capillaries are characterized by tortuosity, the presence of constrictions and expansions, lateral protrusions, the formation of lymphatic "lakes" and "lacunae" at the confluence of several capillaries.

The wall of the lymphatic capillaries is built from a single layer of endothelial cells (there is a basement membrane in the blood capillaries outside the endothelium).

Lymph capillaries No in the substance and membranes of the brain, cornea and lens of the eyeball, spleen parenchyma, bone marrow, cartilage, epithelium of the skin and mucous membranes, placenta, pituitary gland.

Lymphatic postcapillaries- an intermediate link between the lymphatic capillaries and blood vessels. The transition of the lymphatic capillary to the lymphatic postcapillary is determined by the first valve in the lumen (the valves of the lymphatic vessels are paired folds of the endothelium and the underlying basement membrane lying opposite each other). Lymphatic postcapillaries have all the functions of capillaries, but lymph flows through them in only one direction.

Lymphatic vessels are formed from networks of lymphatic postcapillaries (capillaries). The transition of a lymphatic capillary to a lymphatic vessel is determined by a change in the structure of the wall: in it, along with endothelium, there are smooth muscle cells and adventitia, and in the lumen - valves. Therefore, lymph can flow through the vessels in only one direction. The area of the lymphatic vessel between the valves is currently referred to by the term "lymphangion" (Fig. 58).

Rice. 58. Lymphangion - morphofunctional unit of a lymphatic vessel:

1 - segment of the lymphatic vessel with valves.

Depending on the localization above or below the superficial fascia, the lymphatic vessels are divided into superficial and deep. Superficial lymphatic vessels lie in the subcutaneous adipose tissue above the superficial fascia. Most of them follow to the lymph nodes located near the superficial veins.

There are also intraorganic and extraorganic lymphatic vessels. Due to the existence of numerous anastomoses, intraorganic lymphatic vessels form wide-looped plexuses. The lymphatic vessels emerging from these plexuses accompany the arteries, veins and exit the organ. Extraorganic lymphatic vessels are sent to nearby groups of regional lymph nodes, usually accompanying blood vessels, more often veins.

On the path of the lymphatic vessels are located The lymph nodes. This determines that foreign particles, tumor cells, etc. are detained in one of the regional lymph nodes. The exceptions are some lymphatic vessels of the esophagus and, in isolated cases, some vessels of the liver, which flow into the thoracic duct, bypassing the lymph nodes.

Regional lymph nodes organ or tissue - these are the lymph nodes that are the first in the path of the lymphatic vessels that carry lymph from this area of the body.

lymph trunks- These are large lymphatic vessels that are no longer interrupted by lymph nodes. They collect lymph from several areas of the body or several organs.

There are four permanent paired lymph trunks in the human body.

jugular trunk(right and left) is represented by one or more vessels of small length. It is formed from the efferent lymphatic vessels of the lower lateral deep cervical lymph nodes located in a chain along the internal jugular vein. Each of them drains lymph from the organs and tissues of the corresponding sides of the head and neck.

subclavian trunk(right and left) is formed from the fusion of the efferent lymphatic vessels of the axillary lymph nodes, mainly the apical ones. It collects lymph from the upper limb, from the walls of the chest and mammary gland.

Bronchomediastinal trunk(right and left) is formed mainly from the efferent lymphatic vessels of the anterior mediastinal and upper tracheobronchial lymph nodes. It carries lymph away from the walls and organs of the chest cavity.

The efferent lymphatic vessels of the upper lumbar lymph nodes form the right and left lumbar trunks, which divert lymph from the lower limb, walls and organs of the pelvis and abdomen.

Inconsistent intestinal lymphatic trunk occurs in about 25% of cases. It is formed from the efferent lymphatic vessels of the mesenteric lymph nodes and flows into the initial (abdominal) part of the thoracic duct with 1-3 vessels.

Rice. 59. Basin of the thoracic lymphatic duct.

1 - superior vena cava;

2 - right brachiocephalic vein;

3 - left brachiocephalic vein;

4 - right internal jugular vein;

5 - right subclavian vein;

6 - left internal jugular vein;

7 - left subclavian vein;

8 - unpaired vein;

9 - semi-unpaired vein;

10 - inferior vena cava;

11 - right lymphatic duct;

12 - cistern of the thoracic duct;

13 - thoracic duct;

14 - intestinal trunk;

15 - lumbar lymphatic trunks

Lymphatic trunks flow into two ducts: the thoracic duct (Fig. 59) and the right lymphatic duct, which flow into the veins of the neck in the so-called venous angle formed by the union of the subclavian and internal jugular veins. The thoracic lymphatic duct flows into the left venous angle, through which lymph flows from 3/4 of the human body: from lower extremities, pelvis, abdomen, left chest, neck and head, left upper limb. The right lymphatic duct flows into the right venous angle, through which lymph is brought from 1/4 of the body: from the right half of the chest, neck, head, from the right upper limb.

thoracic duct (ductus thoracicus) has a length of 30-45 cm, is formed at the level of the XI thoracic -1 lumbar vertebrae by the fusion of the right and left lumbar trunks (trunci lumbales dexter et sinister). Sometimes at the beginning of the thoracic duct has extension (cisterna chyli). The thoracic duct is formed in the abdominal cavity and passes into the chest cavity through the aortic opening of the diaphragm, where it is located between the aorta and the right medial crus of the diaphragm, the contractions of which help to push the lymph into chest part duct. Level VII cervical vertebra the thoracic duct forms an arc and, having rounded the left subclavian artery, flows into the left venous angle or the veins that form it. At the mouth of the duct there is a semilunar valve that prevents the penetration of blood from the vein into the duct. AT upper part thoracic duct joins the left bronchomediastinal trunk (truncus bronchomediastinalis sinister), collecting lymph from the left half of the chest, as well as the left subclavian trunk (truncus subclavius sinister), collecting lymph from the left upper limb and the left jugular trunk (truncus jugularis sinister), carrying lymph from the left half of the head and neck.

Right lymphatic duct (ductus lymphaticus dexter) 1-1.5 cm long, formed at the confluence of the right subclavian trunk (truncus subclavius dexter), which carries lymph from the right upper limb, the right jugular trunk (truncus jugularis dexter), which collects lymph from the right half of the head and neck, and the right bronchomediastinal trunk (truncus bronchomediastinalis dexter), which brings lymph from the right half of the chest. However, more often the right lymphatic duct is absent, and the trunks forming it flow into the right venous angle on their own.

Lymph nodes of certain areas of the body.

Head and neck

There are many groups of lymph nodes in the head region (Fig. 60): occipital, mastoid, facial, parotid, submandibular, submental, etc. Each group of nodes receives lymphatic vessels from the area closest to its location.

So, the submandibular nodes lie in the submandibular triangle and collect lymph from the chin, lips, cheeks, teeth, gums, palate, lower eyelid, nose, submandibular and sublingual salivary glands. In the parotid lymph nodes located on the surface and in the thickness of the gland of the same name, lymph flows from the forehead, temple, upper eyelid, auricle, walls of the external auditory canal.

Fig.60. Lymphatic system of the head and neck.

1 - anterior ear lymph nodes; 2 - rear ear lymph nodes; 3 - occipital lymph nodes; 4 - lower ear lymph nodes; 5 - buccal lymph nodes; 6 - chin lymph nodes; 7 - posterior submandibular lymph nodes; 8 - anterior submandibular lymph nodes; 9 - lower submandibular lymph nodes; 10 - superficial cervical lymph nodes

There are two main groups of lymph nodes in the neck: deep and superficial cervical. Deep cervical lymph nodes in large numbers accompany the internal jugular vein, and the superficial ones lie near the external jugular vein. In these nodes, mainly in the deep cervical ones, there is an outflow of lymph from almost all the lymphatic vessels of the head and neck, including the efferent vessels of other lymph nodes in these areas.

Upper limb

There are two main groups of lymph nodes on the upper limb: elbow and axillary. The ulnar nodes lie in the ulnar fossa and receive lymph from part of the vessels of the hand and forearm. Through the efferent vessels of these nodes, the lymph flows into the axillary nodes. Axillary lymph nodes are located in the fossa of the same name, one part of them lies superficially in the subcutaneous tissue, the other - in depth near the axillary arteries and veins. Lymph flows into these nodes from the upper limb, as well as from the mammary gland, from the superficial lymphatic vessels of the chest and the upper part of the anterior abdominal wall.

chest cavity

In the chest cavity, the lymph nodes are located in the anterior and posterior mediastinum (anterior and posterior mediastinal), near the trachea (peritracheal), in the bifurcation of the trachea (tracheobronchial), in the hilum of the lung (bronchopulmonary), in the lung itself (pulmonary), and also on the diaphragm. (upper diaphragmatic), near the heads of the ribs (intercostal), near the sternum (peripheral), etc. Lymph flows from the organs and partially from the walls of the chest cavity into these nodes.

lower limb

On the lower extremity, the main groups of lymph nodes are popliteal and inguinal. Popliteal nodes are located in the fossa of the same name near popliteal arteries and veins. These nodes receive lymph from part of the lymphatic vessels of the foot and lower leg. The efferent vessels of the popliteal nodes carry lymph mainly to the inguinal nodes.

Inguinal lymph nodes are divided into superficial and deep. Superficial inguinal nodes lie below the inguinal ligament under the skin of the thigh on top of the fascia, and deep inguinal nodes lie in the same area, but under the fascia near the femoral vein. Lymph flows into the inguinal lymph nodes from the lower limb, as well as from the lower half of the anterior abdominal wall, perineum, from the superficial lymphatic vessels of the gluteal region and lower back. From the inguinal lymph nodes, lymph flows to the external iliac nodes, which are related to the nodes of the pelvis.

In the pelvis, the lymph nodes are located, as a rule, along the course of the blood vessels and have a similar name (Fig. 61). So, the external iliac, internal iliac and common iliac nodes lie near the arteries of the same name, and the sacral nodes lie on the pelvic surface of the sacrum, near the median sacral artery. Lymph from the pelvic organs flows mainly to the internal iliac and sacral lymph nodes.

Rice. 61. Lymph nodes of the pelvis and the vessels connecting them.

1 - uterus; 2 - right common iliac artery; 3 - lumbar lymph nodes; 4 - iliac lymph nodes; 5 - inguinal lymph nodes

abdominal cavity

There are a large number of lymph nodes in the abdominal cavity. They are located along the course of the blood vessels, including the vessels passing through the gates of the organs. Yes, along the way abdominal aorta and inferior vena cava lumbar spine up to 50 lymph nodes (lumbar). in the mesentery small intestine along the branches of the upper mesenteric artery lies up to 200 nodes (superior mesenteric). There are also lymph nodes: celiac (near the celiac trunk), left gastric (along the greater curvature of the stomach), right gastric (along the lesser curvature of the stomach), hepatic (in the region of the gate of the liver), etc. Lymph from the organs flows into the lymph nodes of the abdominal cavity, located in this cavity, and partly from its walls. Lymph from the lower extremities and pelvis also enters the lumbar lymph nodes. It should be noted that the lymphatic vessels of the small intestine are called lactiferous, since lymph flows through them, containing fat absorbed in the intestine, which gives the lymph the appearance of a milky emulsion - hilus (hilus - milky juice).

The part of the vascular system that frees the tissues of the body from metabolic products, infectious agents and their toxins is called the lymphatic. It contains vessels, nodes, ducts, as well as organs involved in the formation of lymphocytes.

With insufficient immune protection, tumor and microbial cells can spread along the lymphatic pathways. Stagnation of lymph leads to the accumulation of excretory products in the tissues. To improve the drainage function of the lymphatic system, massage is prescribed and special methods cleaning.

Read in this article

The composition of the lymphatic system includes capillary, intraorganic and stem vessels, nodes and lymphatic organs.

Vessels

Inside the organs there is a network of small lymphatic capillaries, they have very thin walls through which large particles of protein and liquid easily penetrate from the intercellular space. In the future, they are combined into vessels similar to veins, but with more permeable membranes and a developed valve apparatus.

Vessels from the organs carry lymph to the nodes. By appearance the lymphatic network is like beads. Such a structure arises due to the alternation of areas of narrowing and expansion at the site of attachment of the semilunar valves. The penetration of tissue fluid into the capillaries is explained by the difference osmotic pressure(the lymph is more concentrated), and the reverse flow is impossible due to the valves.

Knots

They have many incoming vessels and 1 or 2 outgoing vessels. The shape is similar to a bean or a ball about 2 cm. They filter the lymphatic fluid, linger and inactivate toxic substances and microbes, and the lymph is saturated with cells of the immune system - lymphocytes.

The fluid that moves through the lymphatic vessels has a whitish or yellowish color. Its composition depends on the organ from which it comes.

The following elements penetrate into the lymph:

water;
proteins (large molecules);
destroyed and tumor cells;
bacteria;
particles of dust and smoke from the lungs;
fluid from the abdominal cavity, pleura and pericardium, joints;
any foreign particles.

Basic functions in the body

The biological role of the lymphatic system is associated with the following activities:

the formation of lymphocytes responsible for cellular and humoral (with the help of special blood proteins) immunity;
delay in the lymph node of mechanical impurities, microbes and toxic compounds;
return to the venous vessels of purified blood;
transfer of fats from the intestinal lumen to the blood;
additional tissue drainage to reduce swelling;
absorption of large protein molecules from the tissue fluid, which themselves cannot get into blood vessels because of the size.

Watch the video about the human lymphatic system and its functions:

Lymph movement pattern

The initial absorption of tissue fluid occurs in the organs by lymphatic capillaries. The resulting lymph through the network of vessels enters the nodes. Purified and saturated with lymphocytes, the fluid from the lymph node moves into the trunks and ducts. There are only two of them in the body:

chest - collects lymph from the left upper limb, the left side of the head, chest and all parts of the body lying under the diaphragm;
right - contains liquid from right hand, half of the head and chest.

The ducts carry lymph to the left and right subclavian veins. It is at the level of the neck that the lymphovenous anastomosis is located, through which the penetration of the lymphatic fluid into the venous blood passes.

For the promotion of lymph, the simultaneous action of the following factors is required:

the pressure of the fluid that is formed continuously;
contraction of the smooth muscles of the vessels between the two valves - the muscular cuff (lymphangion);
fluctuations in the walls of arteries and veins;
muscle compression during body movements;
suction effect of the chest during breathing.

Organs of the lymphatic system

Lymphoid tissue is found in various structures. They are united by the fact that they all serve as a site for the formation of lymphocytes:

the thymus is located behind the sternum, ensures the maturation and "specialization" of T-lymphocytes;
bone marrow is present in the tubular bones of the limbs, pelvis, ribs, contains immature stem cells, from which blood cells are subsequently formed;
pharyngeal tonsils are located in the nasopharyngeal region, protect against microbes, participate in hematopoiesis;
appendix comes off initial department large intestine, cleanses the lymph, forms enzymes, hormones and bacteria involved in the digestion of food;
spleen - the largest organ of the lymphatic system, adjacent to the stomach in the left half of the abdominal cavity, acts as a filter for bacteria and foreign particles, produces antibodies, lymphocytes and monocytes, regulates the functioning of the bone marrow;
lymph nodes of internal organs (single or clusters) take part in the formation of cells for immune protection- T and B lymphocytes.

Types and groups of diseases

In diseases of the lymphatic system, inflammatory processes can occur:

lymphangitis - capillaries, vessels and trunks that are in contact with the focus of suppuration are affected;
lymphadenitis - lymph nodes are involved, the infection penetrates with lymph or directly through the skin (mucosa) in case of injuries.

Lesions of the organs of the lymphatic system can manifest as tonsillitis when the tonsils are infected, appendicitis (inflammation appendix, appendix). Pathological changes in the thymus lead to muscle weakness, autoimmune processes, tumors.

Violation of the bone marrow causes a variety of changes in the composition of the blood: a deficiency of cells with a decrease in immunity (leukopenia), clotting (), oxygen supply (anemia), malignant tumors blood.

Enlargement of the spleen (splenomegaly) occurs with diseases of the blood, liver, typhoid fever. An abscess or cyst may also form in the tissue.

Stagnation of lymphatic fluid leads to the development of lymphedema ( lymphedema). It occurs when there is an obstruction in the vessels of a congenital (structural anomaly) or acquired nature. Secondary lymphedema accompanies injuries, burns, infections, and surgical interventions. With the progression of lymphostasis, elephantiasis of the lower extremities occurs, requiring surgery.

Elephantiasis of the lower extremities

Tumor processes involving lymphatic vessels are more often benign. They are called lymphangiomas. Found on the skin subcutaneous layer, as well as in places of accumulation of lymphoid tissue - neck, head, chest, abdomen, inguinal and axillary areas. With malignancy, lymphosarcoma is located in the same areas.

Causes of disorders in the body

Inflammatory and tumor processes occur when the immune system malfunctions, when it ceases to cope with the body's defense function. This may be due to external factors:

unfavorable climatic conditions,
moving (disruption of adaptation),
radiation,
air pollution, water pollution,
nitrates in food
prolonged exposure to the sun
stress.

Chronic foci of infection in the body, as well as a weak function of the excretory organs, contribute to an excessive load on the lymphatic system. The result is a decrease in its essential functions. Of no small importance for the lymphatic flow is the state of the circulatory system, of which the lymphatic system is a part.

Stagnant processes occur in the following pathological conditions:

circulatory failure - arterial (weakness of cardiac activity) and venous (,);
physical inactivity, obesity;
diseases of the kidneys, liver, intestines;
congenital anomalies in the development of the organs of the lymphatic system;
injuries and operations, burns.

Symptoms of the onset of diseases

If the movement of lymph in the lower extremities is disturbed, swelling occurs, especially after intense exercise. If treatment is not carried out at this stage, then tissue edema (lymphedema) becomes dense, there is heaviness in the legs, cramps and soreness.

Inflammatory diseases of the vessels and nodes of the lymphatic system are manifested in the form of regional redness, swelling and thickening of the skin. It's accompanied high temperature, chills and headache. With deep lymphangitis, there are no external manifestations, but the affected area increases in volume due to tissue edema. Lymph nodes with lymphadenitis become painful, dense, they can be easily felt.

Submandibular lymphadenitis

Condition Diagnostics

In order to examine the patency of the lymphatic vessels and the outflow blocking zone, the following methods are used:

X-ray controlled lymphography, CT or MRI determine valvular insufficiency, structural anomalies. A normal lymphogram looks like uneven accumulations contrast medium in the form of beads.
Lymphoscintigraphy with technetium allows you to detect foci of radioisotope concentration in the zone of lymph stagnation.
Ultrasound with - areas of vasoconstriction, changes in the nodes.
Computer thermography is used for differential diagnosis with phlegmon, phlebitis and osteomyelitis.
Biopsy of the lymph node - reveals blood tumors, cancer metastases.
Blood tests - with inflammation, leukocytosis is noted, when sowing, it is possible to determine the causative agent of the infection.

If tuberculosis is suspected, tests with tuberculin (Mantoux) and chest x-ray are performed.

Treatment options

In the initial stages of lymph stagnation, they are used mainly non-drug methods– massage, magnetotherapy, wearing compression stockings. good effect derived from mechanical pneumocompression and laser treatment in diseases of the lymphatic vessels.

With severe lymphedema, appoint:

phlebotonics (Detralex, Cyclo-3-fort, Aescin);
enzymes - Wobenzym, Trypsin;
angioprotectors - Trental, Quercetin;
- Lasix, Trifas (no more than 2 - 3 days).

If there is a threat of sepsis, then either ultraviolet irradiation blood. At the stage of resorption or with sluggish inflammation, local compresses, dressings with Dimexide, Dioxidine, Chymotrypsin, and mud treatment are indicated.

The progression of lymphatic stagnation with the formation of elephantiasis of the limbs is treated by laying outflow paths during microsurgical operations.

How to cleanse the lymphatic system

Means are used to improve the movement of lymph in the body. traditional medicine, massage techniques. An important condition for the prevention of diseases is the motor mode - the load should be at least 30 minutes, the normal walking in nature, breathing exercises have a healing effect.

For the accelerated removal of metabolic products from the body and the neutralization of toxic compounds, use:

sauna (steam room, bath);
bath with warm water and sea salt;
saturation of tissues with clean water;
dairy restriction, meat products, white bread, starch;
juices from cherries, blackberries, grapes, cranberries;
salad of fresh beets and red cabbage with lemon;
adding parsley and dill, lettuce and garlic to fresh to food;
herbal tea from clover, elderflower, nettle (a teaspoon of one of the herbs in a glass of boiling water three times a day);
tincture of echinacea or eleutherococcus 15 drops in the morning;
chicory instead of coffee;
spices - ginger, turmeric, fennel;
instead of sweets - currants, blackberries, lingonberries and blueberries;
Swedish bitter tincture - 10 g of juice from aloe leaves, a tablespoon of wormwood, rhubarb and senna leaves, on the tip of a knife - turmeric and saffron. Pour a liter of vodka and insist for 15 days. Drink a teaspoon with tea.

The impact of massage

Lymphatic drainage is enhanced by the use of strokes on the lymph flow. Since its movement occurs only from the bottom up, then the massage movements should have a similar direction.

In this case, the following changes occur in the tissues:

accelerates the movement of fluid from the tissues into the lymphatic capillaries;
puffiness decreases,
products of metabolic processes are removed faster.

Pressing and squeezing works deeper into soft tissues, and vibration enhances microcirculation. Massage is contraindicated in any acute process in the body, and especially in the presence of a purulent focus, since in these cases, accelerated lymph flow will lead to the spread of the lesion to other organs and tissues.

The lymphatic system has a drainage function, participates in metabolic processes and formation of cells of the immune system. In case of overvoltage (due to external factors or against the background of diseases), immunity fails, which contributes to inflammatory or tumor processes.

Can be used for treatment antibacterial drugs, venotonics, angioprotectors. AT severe cases shown surgical intervention. To clean the lymphatic system, you need to adjust the diet, move as much as possible, drink herbal teas, take a course of lymphatic drainage massage.

Functions of lymph in the body

Lymph circulation performs several functions at once:

Structure diagram

The anatomical structure of the lymphatic system can be depicted schematically:

The main components of its structure:

capillaries and vessels;
nodes;
ducts;
organs.

Lymphatic capillaries and vessels permeate almost all organs and tissues of the body. They are not only in the spinal cord and brain, inner fabric spleen, lens of the eye, middle ear and placenta. The capillaries of the lymphatic system are thicker than those of the circulatory system and have permeable walls that are physiologically more adapted to the absorption of substances. They merge into large ducts - vessels that also have thin walls, but are equipped with valves that prevent reverse or retrograde lymph flow.

Vessels slowly deliver fluid to groups of lymph nodes, consisting of lymphoid tissue, which contains:

lymphocytes;
plasma cells;
reticulocytes are young red blood cells.

In the nodes of the lymphatic system, immune cells “ripen”:

B-lymphocytes - produce antibodies and mobilize immune system in case of a threat;
T-lymphocytes - contribute to the breakdown of cells damaged by viruses.

The fluid released from the lymph nodes through large ducts enters the circulatory system. As can be seen in the diagram, there are only two lymphatic ducts in the body - the right and left, which flow into the corresponding subclavian veins.

The organs of the lymphatic system are:

spleen;
thymus or thymus;
tonsils.

The movement of lymph occurs from the bottom up due to the fact that the valves of this system allow fluid to pass in only one direction. Therefore, it is important to massage in the direction of its circulation: from the fingers to the chest. lymphatic duct, from the toes to the inguinal lymph nodes.

Causes of enlarged lymph nodes

Since the lymphatic system is aimed at cleansing the body and getting rid of harmful trace elements, an increase in lymph nodes always indicates the presence of pathology.

The following photo is an example of what it looks like inflamed lymph node. In this case, the neck is affected.

The most common cause of swollen lymph nodes is infection. They can be both local and generalized, when the inflammatory process first occurs in one lymph node, and then spreads to others.

Autoimmune diseases that cause inflammation in the nodes are arthritis and lupus erythematosus.

Oncological diseases of the lymphatic system: Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Inflammation can also be caused by other types of cancer, the metastases of which spread to the lymph nodes.

Cleansing the lymphatic system

Since the lymphatic system performs a number of vital important functions, removing from the body polluting bacteria, infections and cell decay products, it also needs to be cleansed.

Sedentary lifestyle, malnutrition, technogenic influence - all this disrupts its work and leads to stagnation of lymph in the body. As a result, disease-causing substances are not removed from the body, but remain in it, which reduces general level immunity and increases the risk of autoimmune diseases.

Helps cleanse the lymphatic system healthy diet and a special massage.

The diet should include the following products:

fresh greens;
seaweed;
linseed oil;
herbal teas.

To improve the outflow of fluid, you need to drink at least 7-8 glasses of clean water daily.

It will help to "revive" the processes of outflow and lymphatic drainage. However, only a massage therapist trained in a special technique should do it: the lymphatic system is very fragile, incorrect actions can damage the valves and cause fluid to flow back. All movements should be made in the direction of the lymph - from the bottom up.

Lymphatic drainage:

promotes the penetration of fluid from the tissues into the capillaries and vessels of the system;
accelerates lymph circulation;
activates the process of cleansing blood vessels from the products of cell decay.

A session of lymphatic drainage lasts at least an hour. It begins with warming up techniques - intense stroking and rubbing. The masseur then applies deeper techniques that promote the movement of the lymph and are performed along the lymph vessels. At this stage, it is important to consistently work out all parts of the body: from the toes to the pelvic area, from the fingers to the chest. The session ends with relaxing techniques - light strokes.

You can learn more about the techniques and features of lymphatic drainage massage from the article.

Feature articles

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Address: 86033, Ukraine, Kyiv region

TIN 2988711087, KIEV DEP. GRU PAT CB "PRIVATBANK", KIEV,

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