Term: lymphatic system

Pronunciation: (lim-FA-tik SIS-tem)

Description:

The tissues and organs that help the body fight infection and disease. The lymphatic system includes the lymph nodes, lymph vessels (thin tubes that carry lymph and white blood cells), bone marrow, spleen, thymus, tonsils and adenoids, and lymph tissue in the small intestine and other parts of the body. The lymphatic system is an important part of the body’s immune system. It also plays an important role in maintaining healthy fluid levels in the body, removing cellular debris and harmful substances from the tissues, and helping the body absorb certain fats and other molecules. Also called lymph system.