Lumbar lymph trunk

Lumbar lymph trunk

The lymphatic system, highlighting the lumbar lymph trunks.

The Lumbar lymph trunk is a significant part of the human lymphatic system. It is responsible for draining lymph from the lower limbs, the wall and viscera of the pelvis, the kidneys, the adrenal glands, and the abdominal wall.

Anatomy

The lumbar lymph trunks are formed by the union of the efferent vessels from the lateral aortic lymph nodes. They receive lymph from the iliac lymph nodes, and occasionally from the testes in males or the ovaries in females. The lumbar lymph trunks ascend along the sides of the aorta and join the intestinal trunk to form the cisterna chyli.

Function

The primary function of the lumbar lymph trunks is to transport lymph, a fluid containing white blood cells that fight infection, from the lower body to the thoracic duct, the largest lymphatic vessel in the body. This process is crucial for maintaining the body's immune response and fluid balance.

Clinical Significance

Understanding the anatomy and function of the lumbar lymph trunks is essential in the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions. For instance, blockage or damage to these trunks can lead to lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling in the legs. Additionally, the spread of cancer cells, known as metastasis, often involves the lymphatic system, including the lumbar lymph trunks.

See Also

• Lymphatic system
• Lymph node
• Lymphedema
• Metastasis