Word parts
What it means
Lymphatic vessels collect extra fluid that leaks out of capillaries into the tissues and carry it, as lymph, through the lymph nodes and back into the blood. Along the way, the nodes filter out germs and cancer cells. As a noun, "lymphatics" means the lymph vessels.
For the nurse
When lymph nodes are removed or damaged, as after some breast cancer surgery, fluid can build up in the arm (lymphedema). Follow the facility's policy on blood pressure readings and needle sticks in that arm.
At a glance
| Spanish | linfático |
|---|---|
| Also written | lymphatics |
Related terms
lymph node
A small, bean-shaped organ of the immune system that filters lymph fluid and holds white blood cells.
immune system
The body's defense system of cells, tissues and organs that fights germs and other foreign substances.
lymphatic system
The network of lymph vessels, lymph nodes and organs such as the spleen and thymus that drains tissue fluid and helps fight infection.