Subclavian lymph trunk
Subclavian Lymph Trunk[edit | edit source]
The subclavian lymph trunk is a major lymphatic vessel in the human body that drains lymph from the upper limbs, as well as from the superficial tissues of the thoracic wall and the mammary glands. It is an essential component of the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance and immune function.
Anatomy[edit | edit source]
The subclavian lymph trunk is located in the thoracic cavity, specifically in the region of the subclavian vein. It is formed by the convergence of the efferent lymphatic vessels from the axillary lymph nodes, which are responsible for draining lymph from the upper limb and the lateral portions of the thoracic wall.
The trunk travels medially and superiorly, running parallel to the subclavian vein. It typically joins the thoracic duct on the left side of the body, or the right lymphatic duct on the right side, before emptying into the venous circulation at the junction of the subclavian and internal jugular veins.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of the subclavian lymph trunk is to transport lymph, a clear fluid containing white blood cells, proteins, and lipids, from the upper limbs and adjacent regions to the central venous circulation. This process is vital for:
- Fluid balance: By returning excess interstitial fluid to the bloodstream, the lymphatic system helps maintain proper fluid levels in the body.
- Immune response: Lymph contains lymphocytes and other immune cells that help detect and respond to pathogens.
- Lipid absorption: The lymphatic system also plays a role in the absorption of dietary fats from the intestines.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Obstruction or damage to the subclavian lymph trunk can lead to lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling due to the accumulation of lymphatic fluid. This can occur as a result of surgical procedures, radiation therapy, or infections that affect the lymphatic system.
Understanding the anatomy and function of the subclavian lymph trunk is important for diagnosing and treating conditions related to lymphatic drainage.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
