Lymphatic System

The major components of the lymphatic system are lymphatic vessels, lymph, lymph nodes, and some other lymphatic organs.

Lymphatic vessels carry lymph, a colorless liquid, throughout the body. Along lymph vessels are small bean-shaped glandular nodules called lymph nodes.

Other lymphatic organs are:

• Tonsil: clusters of lymphatic tissues just under the mucous membranes that line the nose, mouth, and pharynx.
• Spleen: it is similar to a lymph node in shape and structure but it is much larger.
• Thymus: a soft organ with two lobes that is located anterior to the ascending aorta and posterior to the sternum.
• Peyer patch: lymphoid tissue on the visceral surface of the small intestine.