THORACIC DUCT Meaning and
Definition
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The thoracic duct is a major component of the lymphatic system that plays a crucial role in draining lymph fluid from the lower extremities, abdomen, left side of the chest, and left upper extremity. Also known as the left lymphatic duct, it is the largest lymphatic vessel in the human body. The thoracic duct begins near the second lumbar vertebra and ascends through the diaphragm to enter the thoracic cavity.
Within the thoracic cavity, the duct lies just anterior to the spine and runs along the posterior mediastinum. It collects lymph from various regions and organs such as the spleen, stomach, intestines, and the lower limbs via smaller lymphatic vessels. As it travels upwards, it gradually increases in size, eventually draining into the left subclavian vein near the junction with the left internal jugular vein.
Apart from its primary function of transporting lymphatic fluid back into the bloodstream, the thoracic duct also serves as a conduit for the absorption and transport of fat molecules. It carries a specialized form of lymph called chyle, which contains the products of fat digestion, from the intestines to the venous circulation. This is particularly significant for maintaining a healthy balance of nutrients within the body.
A disruption or blockage in the thoracic duct can lead to a condition known as chylothorax, where lymphatic fluid accumulates within the pleural cavity. Surgical procedures, trauma, or certain underlying diseases can cause such obstructions, requiring medical intervention to restore proper drainage and prevent complications.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for THORACIC DUCT
- rhoracic duct
- fhoracic duct
- ghoracic duct
- yhoracic duct
- 6horacic duct
- 5horacic duct
- tgoracic duct
- tboracic duct
- tnoracic duct
- tjoracic duct
- tuoracic duct
- tyoracic duct
- thiracic duct
- thkracic duct
- thlracic duct
- thpracic duct
- th0racic duct
- th9racic duct
- thoeacic duct
Etymology of THORACIC DUCT
The word "thoracic" comes from the Greek word "thorax", which means "chest" or "breastplate". It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *terə-, meaning "breast" or "belly".
The word "duct" comes from the Latin word "ductus", which means "conduit" or "channel". It is derived from the Latin verb "ducere", meaning "to lead".
Therefore, the term "thoracic duct" refers to the primary channel in the body's lymphatic system that is located in the thorax or chest region.
Similar spelling words for THORACIC DUCT
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