Not everyone may know that the tonsils and the appendix possess a well-defined lymphatic network. As they also serve to filter out and destroy bacteria, they may be called sister organs. Since their importance to the body is so great, these organs should not be surgically removed as long as they do their work. Even if something is wrong with them, it would be better to see what could be done with a view to healing them and so keeping them in the body.

The lymph nodes are small masses of tissue situated along the course of the lymphatic vessels. Their purpose is to filter out and kill bacteria as well as to neutralise toxins. Should one filtering station prove insufficient, another one will be called upon to help. As the bacteria advance, we notice hard red lines, rope-like and tender, leading to a swelling, for example on the inside of the elbow. As noted earlier, the swelling may grow to the size of a hen’s egg and will become sensitive to pressure. This condition is caused by an accumulation of lymph cells which have become embedded in connective tissues and muscle fibres, presenting the symptoms of blood poisoning. It is possible that in such a case the centre will not be able to cope and will call on the lymphatics in the armpit as well. If the septic injury is in the foot, the patient will feel the tight lymphatic course right along the leg and the swelling will be found in the groin.

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