The lymphatic system is the body's drainage network that keeps body fluids in balance and also fights infections to keep the body healthy. The lymphatic system is made up of a variety of lymphatic vessels and organs. (The Spleen and Lymphatic System, Adolescent Health) The lymphatic system as a whole is similar to the cardiovascular system and has three specific functions. The vessels for one collect the extra fluid and return it to the bloodstream. Secondly, the nipples receive lipoproteins and then the lymphatic vessels transport these fats into the bloodstream as well. Finally, as mentioned above, the lymphatic system keeps the body healthy and fights infections. (Lymph Transport and Immunity, McGraw Hill) Lymphatic vessels are a key part of the lymphatic system. Their role is to transport liquids away from the tissues. The vessels carry a fluid known as lymph. Lymph is a clear fluid that comes from blood plasma and exits from blood vessels found in capillary beds. Lymphatic vessels filter lymph before sending it to blood vessels located near the heart. The return of lymph helps keep blood pressure low and helps prevent excess fluid known as edema. (Lymphatic vessels, Bailey) The smallest lymphatic vessels are called lymphatic capillaries. These vessels are closed at the ends and have thin walls that allow interstitial fluid to flow into the capillary vessel. Lymphatic capillaries join together as lymphatic vessels that fuse before entering the thoracic duct or right lymphatic duct. The thoracic duct is the larger of the two and serves the left side of the body as well as the abdomen. Its job is to supply lymph to the left subclavian vein within the cardiovascular system. The right lymphatic duct, the smaller of the two,... in the center of the paper... the weak point. There are no cures for myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis, diabetes or systemic lupus erythematosus, and no one knows exactly what causes autoimmune diseases, but most are triggered by a disabled immune system. With no cure available, these diseases must be controlled with medications, but over time most will become debilitating, leading in many cases to a shorter lifespan than others. (Lymph Transport and Immunity, McGraw Hill) Overall, the lymphatic system is critical in allowing the body to stay healthy and fight infections. By absorbing fats and trapping antigens, it helps keep the body healthy and disease-free. Without the lymphatic system, people would not be able to survive and would be riddled with disease. To survive, no matter if you are a human or a dog, a healthy lymphatic system is necessary for the survival of these advanced species.