3.4.2: Functions of Lymph
The three functions of the lymphatic system are:
- Return of protein and fluid from the ISF to the circulation to maintain a low interstitial fluid protein concentration and maintain the oncotic pressure gradient across the capillary membrane. Oedema will occur if ISF oncotic pressure is not kept low.
- Role in absorption and transport of fat from the small intestine.
- Immunological role -lymph glands, and circulation of immune cells such as lymphocytes and dendritic cells, removal of bacteria.
Lymph from most parts of the body usually has a low protein concentration. Liver lymph is different because:
- It normally has a high protein concentration (due to low reflection coefficient)
- It contributes more than half of all the thoracic duct lymph
Consequently, the average lymph protein concentration in thoracic duct lymph is much higher than expected based on protein concentration in lymph from other body tissues.
The thoracic duct carries about 80% of the total lymph flow. This total flow at rest is about 120 mls/hr. If interstitial hydrostatic pressure rises (ie becomes less negative) due to excess fluid filtration & accumulation, the total lymph flow can increase quite markedly.
Chyle is lymph from the intestines which has a milky-while appearance due to the presence of large numbers of chylomicrons. Chylomicrons are 100nm diameter complexes of mostly triglycerides (containing the long chain fatty acids) enclosed in a hydrophobic protein coat. Chylomicrons enter the lymphatic lacteals in the villi, travel in the lymph and then enter the circulation via the thoracic duct.
Absorption of snake venoms (for Australian elapid snakes) occurs principally via lymph channels. If the bite is on a limb, the rate of venom absorption can be very much retarded by firm external compression of the lymph channels (pressure) and by not exercising the muscles of the limb (immobilisation). The aim of this 'pressure-immobilisation technique' for bites on limbs is to minimise entry of venom into the circulation and to 'buy time' so the person can reach medical care where specific anti-venom is available. As absorption is not directly into the venous system at the bite site, a torniquet is unnecessary and should NOT be used.