The thoracic lymphatic duct: anatomy. Lymphatic system. Lymphatic vessels

There are 3 types of vessels in the human body. Each of them performs vital functions. These include arteries, veins and lymphatic vessels. All these formations are located throughout the body. Lymphatic and venous vessels collect fluid from each anatomical formation. With the development of blockage, significant disturbances occur. Therefore, it is important that the outflow of biological fluid is constantly carried out.

The lymphatic duct is what is this organ?

As is known, lymphatic structures are referred to the organs of the immune system. She is very important, because her work depends on the ability to fight with various infectious agents. One of the largest organs of this system is the thoracic lymphatic duct. Its length varies from 30 to 40 cm. The main purpose of this organ is the collection of lymph from all anatomical formations.

The histological structure of the thoracic duct resembles a venous tissue. Its internal surface is lined with endothelium (as in other vessels). The composition of the fabric also contains elastic and collagen fibers. In the inner membrane of the duct there are valves. With their help, the lymph moves up. The middle layer of the thoracic duct is represented by a smooth muscle tissue. Thus, the tone is maintained and the organ is reduced. Outside, the duct consists of connective tissue fibers. At the level of the diaphragm, the wall of the organ thickens.

Structure of the lymphatic system

The lymphatic system plays an important role in the body. It is necessary for protection against harmful substances. The thoracic lymphatic duct, as well as the vessels and nodes, belong to the organs of the immune system. Therefore, with the development of inflammation, these formations begin to work in an intensified rhythm. In addition, the lymphatic organs are closely related to the cardiovascular system. Thanks to them, useful substances enter the bloodstream. This system is represented by the following bodies:

1. Lymphatic capillaries. In structure, these formations are similar to veins, but their walls are thinner. Capillaries are present in each organ and form networks. They get interstitial fluid, as well as all the necessary proteins and fats.
2. The lymph nodes. They are located near each organ along the veins and arteries. In the nodes there is a purification of lymph - filtration. Harmful and toxic substances are inactivated. The nodes belong to the organs of the immune system, since they produce lymphocytes. These cells are necessary for fighting infectious agents.
3. Lymphatic vessels. They connect the capillaries and nodes together. Then the vessels are sent to larger formations - ducts. There is accumulated a large amount of lymph collected from all organs. Then it is processed, after which it enters the venous system. The thoracic lymphatic duct collects fluid from the left upper half of the trunk and internal organs.
4. Spleen. Performs blood depot functions.
5. Right lymphatic duct. It collects fluid from the remaining anatomical formations. Among them - the right upper limb, half of the head and neck.
6. Thymus is thymus gland. This organ is well developed in children. In it, the formation of immune cells - T-lymphocytes.
7. Tonsils.
8. Lymph is a fluid that circulates through vessels and trunks that flow into the ducts.

All these formations are interrelated. If one of the links in the lymphatic system is damaged, the disturbances affect other parts of the lymphatic system. As a result, violations occur throughout the body.

Course of the chest lymphatic duct: anatomy

In the formation of the thoracic duct, the left and right lumbar lymphatic trunk participate. That is, the organ is formed in the retroperitoneal space. Where does the lymphatic duct begin and where does it enter? The right and left trunks merge at a level between the last (12) thoracic and 2 lumbar vertebrae. In some people, another 1-3 vessels enter the thoracic duct. These are intestinal ceca that carry lymph from the mesentery nodes.

At the level of the diaphragm, the duct is divided into 2 parts - the abdominal and thoracic. The first is formed by a network of mesenteric, lumbar and celiac lymph nodes. In most cases, in the ventral part of the duct there is a cone-shaped (ampouleum) extension - a cistern. This anatomical formation is connected to the right foot of the diaphragm. Due to this, when breathing, the lymph is pushed upwards.

The thoracic part of the duct begins at the level of the aortic opening located in the diaphragm. Reaching 3-5 vertebrae, the vessel deviates to the left side. In the course of the duct, bronchodiastinal, jugular and subclavian lymphatic trunks enter it. They collect fluid from the left hand, half of the chest, neck and head. At level 7 of the vertebra, the vessel forms an arc. Then the thoracic lymphatic duct flows into the left venous angle. There is a valve in the mouth of the vessel. It is necessary to prevent the transfer of blood from the venous system.

Location of lymphatic duct

The topography of the thoracic lymphatic duct is the location of this organ in relation to other anatomical formations. The ventral part of this large vessel is located behind the esophagus and in front of the spinal column. Penetrating into the chest cavity, the duct enters the posterior mediastinum. There it is located between the aorta and the unpaired vein. At the level of 2-3 thoracic vertebrae, the duct emerges from under the esophagus and rises higher.

In front of it are located: the left subclavian vein, the common carotid artery and the vagus nerve. Thus, the organ is in the upper mediastinum. To the left of the duct is located the pleura, behind - the spine, and on the right - the esophagus. The arch of the thoracic duct is formed at the level of the vessels - the jugular vein and the common carotid artery. It goes around the pleural dome, and then passes into the mouth. There the organ flows into the left venous corner.

Functions of the chest lymphatic duct

The thoracic duct performs the following functions:

1. The main purpose of this body is to collect the interstitial fluid from the internal organs and the left half of the body.
2. Transfer of necessary proteins into the venous system.
3. Intestinal lymph vessels also penetrate fats. After that they enter the bloodstream.
4. Filtration of lymph. In the nodes and ducts, the liquid is cleaned of harmful substances.
5. The formation of B-lymphocytes, performing the protective function of the body.

It is worth noting that the thoracic duct can not act independently. Its functions are carried out with well-coordinated work of all parts of the immune system.

Location of lymphatic vessels in the body

Based on the structure of the anatomy of the lymphatic duct, it is possible to understand where the vessels are. They are located throughout the body. Vascular lymphatic plexuses depart from all anatomical formations. Then they go along the veins and arteries. Near each organ there are groups of lymph nodes. In them, the biological fluid is enriched with immune cells. Out of the nodes, vascular vessels are formed, which flow into the lymphatic trunks. In turn, these formations merge into the right and thoracic ducts. Further, the lymphatic and blood vessels are connected.

Lesion of the thoracic duct: symptoms

Depending on the level of lesion of the lymphatic duct, various clinical manifestations can be observed. This body belongs to large anatomical formations, therefore, trauma of this vessel requires urgent surgical help. Under the lesion is also meant a blockage of the duct or inflammation of its wall. The following symptoms may occur:

1. Pain in the muscles and their weakness.
2. Neuralgia.
3. Functional disorders of the intestines, stomach and esophagus.
4. Loss of weight or, on the contrary, weight gain.
5. Inflammatory diseases of ENT organs and brain envelopes.
6. Metabolic disease.
7. Skin pathology.
8. Hair loss on the side of the lesion.
9. Arrhythmias.

Diseases of lymphatic vessels and nodes: diagnosis

In inflammatory diseases of lymphatic vessels and nodes, they increase in size. In this case, there may be hyperemia and a local increase in temperature. Nodules become denser, palpations are marked by unpleasant sensations. If there is a suspicion of oncological processes in the lymphatic organs, a biopsy and a histological analysis are performed. Also, diagnostic procedures include ultrasound, computer tomography.

What kind of doctor should I consult if I suspect of a thoracic duct?

If frequent inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract, skin, muscles and intercostal nerves should consult a doctor. Diagnose the pathology of the thoracic duct by using a special study of lymphography. If you suspect an inflammation or an oncological process, you should contact a general practitioner who will refer you to a profile doctor (immunologist, oncologist, physiotherapist).