Bronchomediastinal lymph trunk

Diagram of the lymphatic system, including the bronchomediastinal lymph trunk.

The bronchomediastinal lymph trunk is a major lymphatic vessel in the human body that drains lymph from the thoracic region, specifically from the lungs, heart, and mediastinum. It plays a crucial role in the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system.

Anatomy

The bronchomediastinal lymph trunk is formed by the convergence of several lymphatic vessels that collect lymph from the bronchial and mediastinal lymph nodes. There are two bronchomediastinal lymph trunks in the body: the right and the left.

Right Bronchomediastinal Lymph Trunk

The right bronchomediastinal lymph trunk drains lymph from the right side of the thorax, including the right lung, right side of the heart, and the right mediastinum. It typically empties into the right lymphatic duct, which then drains into the right subclavian vein.

Left Bronchomediastinal Lymph Trunk

The left bronchomediastinal lymph trunk drains lymph from the left side of the thorax, including the left lung, left side of the heart, and the left mediastinum. It usually empties into the thoracic duct, which then drains into the left subclavian vein.

Function

The primary function of the bronchomediastinal lymph trunk is to transport lymph, which contains immune cells and waste products, from the thoracic region to the venous circulation. This process is essential for maintaining fluid balance in the body and for the proper functioning of the immune system.

Clinical Significance

Obstruction or damage to the bronchomediastinal lymph trunk can lead to lymphedema in the thoracic region, which is characterized by swelling due to the accumulation of lymph fluid. This condition can occur due to various causes, including cancer, infection, or surgery.

Related Pages

• Lymphatic system
• Thoracic duct
• Right lymphatic duct
• Lymph node
• Immune system