The lymphatic system plays an important role in forming immunity or body immunity. In the lymphatic system there are various types of organs that play a role in producing, storing, and distributing white blood cells to various parts of the body to fight disease-causing germs.
The lymphatic system or lymph system is a major part of the immune system. A good immune system can protect the body from infection.
Therefore, if the lymphatic system is disturbed, the work of the body's immune system in warding off various germs that cause disease can also be disrupted.
Understanding the Functions and Organs of the Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system has an important role in various body functions. Some of the main functions of the lymphatic system are:
- Fights various infectious causes, such as germs, viruses, fungi, and parasites
- Detects the presence of cancer cells and prevents their growth
- Regulate body fluid balance
- Absorb some fat from food in the intestine
- Detects the presence of antigens and forms antibodies to fight them
To carry out these functions, the lymphatic system is composed of several kinds of organs consisting of:
Bone marrow and thymus gland
Bone marrow and thymus gland are organs that play an important role in the immune system and play a key role in the lymphatic system.
Bone marrow is responsible for producing various types of blood cells, such as red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells (leukocytes). Meanwhile, the thymus gland is responsible for producing lymphocyte cells called T cells. These cells function to detect and fight bacteria and viruses that cause infection.
Spleen
The spleen is the largest organ in the lymphatic system. This organ located on the left side of the stomach is responsible for filtering and monitoring blood in the body. The spleen also plays a role in the production and storage of body cells, including various types of white blood cells.
Lymph nodes and vessels
In the body, white blood cells produced by the lymphatic system will move through the lymph fluid or lymphatic fluid. This fluid is spread through the lymph vessels.
The flow of lymph fluid is also regulated by the lymph nodes. This gland is also responsible for storing white blood cells that play a role in fighting cancer cells and microorganisms that cause infection, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi.
Lymph nodes are located in almost all parts of the body, including the neck, chest, armpits, abdomen, and groin.
Various Disorders of the Lymphatic System
Behind its very large role for the body, there are times when the function of the lymphatic system is disturbed due to certain conditions or diseases. The following are some disorders or diseases that can attack the lymphatic system:
1. Infection
Infections caused by viruses, bacteria, germs, fungi, and parasites can trigger resistance from the immune system, including the lymph nodes. This condition causes inflammation of the lymph nodes or lymphadenitis.
Symptoms of lymphadenitis vary, depending on the cause and location of the infection. When an infection occurs, the lymph nodes are usually swollen.
2. Cancer
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymph nodes that occurs when lymphocyte cells grow and multiply uncontrollably. Cancer in the lymphatic system can make lymphocyte cells do not function properly and interfere with the smooth flow of lymph fluid in the vessels and lymph nodes.
3. Blockage (obstruction)
Blockage or obstruction in the lymphatic system can cause swelling due to the accumulation of lymph fluid (lymphedema).
This condition can be caused by the formation of scar tissue in the lymph vessels, for example due to injury, radiotherapy, or surgical removal of the lymph nodes. Blockage of the lymphatic channels can also be caused by infection, for example in filariasis.
4. Autoimmune disease
In addition to the various diseases above, the lymphatic system can also be disrupted due to autoimmune conditions. Examples of autoimmune diseases that can interfere with the performance of the lymphatic system are: autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS). This disease can cause a decrease in the number of red blood cells and platelets, as well as destruction of neutrophil white blood cells.
In addition, other autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, and lupus, can also cause disorders of the lymphatic system.
The role of the lymphatic system is very important for the body's resistance to various diseases, such as cancer and infections. Therefore, you need to always maintain a healthy lymphatic system by living a healthy lifestyle and having regular check-ups with your doctor.
If you experience health problems related to the lymphatic system, such as swollen lymph nodes, fever, or unexplained weight loss, consult a doctor immediately for proper examination and treatment.