Review of the Lymphatic System

18.3.1 Review of the Lymphatic System The lymph system consists of the lymph nodes and the lymph vessels.

Function of the Lymphatic System  The lymphatic system communicates with the circulatory system. It takes water and fluid from the tissues and carries them back into the blood.

 The lymphatic system also helps protect the body. It works together with the white blood cells to remove various germs that enter the body.

Lymph Nodes Lymph nodes (also called lymph glands) are located throughout the body, including the neck, between the back legs, the chest, and abdomen. Lymph nodes act as a filter, removing dead cells and organisms (like viruses and bacteria) which should not be in the blood. White blood cells also multiply in the lymph nodes.

If any lymph node is enlarged, there is probably an infection somewhere in the body, or more rarely, cancer. When cutting open a dead animal, check for enlarged lymph nodes. To diagnose some diseases, it is important to collect lymph nodes and put them in formalin or alcohol (i.e. collect specimens). The specimens should then be sent to a laboratory for examination. If possible, ask the laboratory exactly what specimens should be collected and how.

Meat Inspection When animals are slaughtered, the meat is often inspected for any sign of disease that may spread to humans. The inspector first checks the lymph nodes for any signs of infection. Usually the meat cannot be sold if there are signs of infection.

Systems of the Body and Associated Veterinary Problems