The history of the development of our knowledge regarding the structure and functions of the lymphatic system: written for the Wellcome Prize in the History of Medicine, 1928

I have tried to trace the history of the development of our knowledge regarding the structure and function of the many different parts belonging to the lymphatic system from the beginning of our knowledge of them up to the present day. The object in taking the different parts separately has been to show the progress more clearly and also to impress upon one the great change which takes place when one theory supplants another. How, when there is doubt about the function and structure of an organ or part, there generally follows a host of different theories. Take for example that theory of Hunter's which had caused the opposing theory of venous absorption to fall into the shade. It was almost decided by all to be correct - and then at the sound of Magendie the scales were changed.In a more gradual way it has been interesting to notice how the mechanical theory of absorption has given way to the vital theory. It is owing partly to the parallel progress made in our knowledge of the other parts and functions of the body that we to -day have built up the knowledge we have regarding the structure and functions of the lymphatic system