Exam 3: lymphatic system Flashcards
What are the main functions of the lymphatic system?
Return fluid back to blood
Immune system
Fat absorption in small intestine
Where are lymphatic capillaries found?
In the tissues of every organ except bone marrow, cns, and avascular tissue
Describe the function of lymphatic capillaries
Collect and filter fluid from your body’s cells and tissues
How does lymph re enter the blood stream?
re enters through the thoracic duct
How is lymph transported to the vessels?
Lymph capillaries drain into collecting lymphatic vessels
Describe the basic structure of lymphoid tissue?
Lymphoid cells
Follicles
Organs
What is diffuse lymphoid tissue?
Collection of lymphocytes that are not encapsulated
What are lymphoid follicles?
Solid sphericle
Contains germinal centers of B cells
Difference between primary and and secondary lymphoid organs?
Primary: T and B cells mature; red bone marrow and thymus
Secondary: mature lymphocytes see their antigen and become active; lymph nodes; spleen; MALT
Purpose of lymph nodes
Cleanses the lymph nodes
Prevents unwanted substances from going to the blood
Basic structure of lymph nodes and the type of cell that lives in the nodes?
Small less that 1 inch
Surrounded by capsule
Has a cortex with B cells and a medulla
Describe the path of lymph as it travels from afferent to efferent vessels.
Lymph enters through afferent vessels
Travels through subcapsular sinus
Then enters medullary sinuses
Exits side at hilium via efferent vessels
Why do lymph nodes get swollen?
When they get overwhelmed by what they are destroying
Called buboes
Different functions of the spleen?
Site of lymphatic proliferation and immune response
Cleanses blood
Macrophages remove debris
Describe white pulp of spleen
Immune function
Contains lymphocytes on reticular fibers
Clusters are found around central arteries
