Lymph is the fluid present within the lymphatic system. It is mostly composed of excess fluid taken away from the interstitial spaces between tissues. When it enters the lymphatic system, lymph is similar in composition to blood but with no red blood cells, and many lymphocytes. It travels through lymph nodes of the lymphatic system where it is cleared of debris and microorganisms, before being transported back to the blood circulation via the veins.
Lymph may be further classified as afferent or efferent. Afferent lymph refers to fluid which has been absorbed into the lymphatic system, but which has not passed through a lymph node. Efferent lymph is lymph which has already passed through, and been cleansed by, one or more lymph nodes.
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