FUNCTIONS OF THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM (GENERAL INFORMATION)
The tonsils and the appendix are also allied to the lymphatic system and have the job of cleansing the body and destroying germs. Both can be regarded as filtering systems, which explains why we should never have them removed unless it is strictly necessary. Their removal constitutes a weakening of the forces in the fight against harmful bacteria.
In the event that cancer cells escape during a biopsy or because of incomplete removal of malignant tissue in an operation, the lymph generally catches them and the centre harbours them with the intent of destroying them. If the attempt to destroy them fails, these giant cells begin to grow and multiply, and the result is the much feared lymphoadenoma, or Hodgkin’s disease, a form of cancer of the lymph nodes. That is why surgeons remove all lymph vessels and nodes during a cancer operation, especially in cases of breast cancer.
Another function of the lymph is to absorb emulsified fat and pass it on in small, tolerable quantities to the bloodstream. All so-called antibodies, which ensure immunity against infectious diseases, are formed in the lymphatic system. You can therefore understand how important it is for this system to function properly. Certain disorders of the heart, the kidneys and the blood vessels can be attributed to a partial failure of the lymphatic system.
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