The lymphatic system is an extensive drainage network that helps
keep bodily fluid levels in balance and defends the body against
infections. The lymphatic system is made up of a network of
lymphatic vessels. These vessels carry lymph — a clear, watery
fluid containing protein molecules, salts, glucose, urea, and
other substances — throughout the body. The spleen is located in
the upper left part of the abdomen under the ribcage. It works
as part of the lymphatic system to protect the body, clearing
worn-out red blood cells and other foreign bodies from the
bloodstream to help fight off infection. Why They're Important
One of the lymphatic system's major jobs is to collect extra
lymph fluid from body tissues and return it to the blood. This
process is important because water, proteins, and other
substances are continuously leaking out of tiny blood
capillaries into the surrounding body tissues. If the lymphatic
system didn't drain the excess fluid from the tissues, the lymph
fluid would build up in the body's