Immune System/LYMPH Flashcards
(24 cards)
What are the main functions of the lymphatic system?
Collects interstitial fluid, returns it to blood, absorbs fats and fat-soluble vitamins, defends against pathogens.
What is lymph?
Fluid formed from interstitial fluid that enters lymphatic vessels.
Where are lymphocytes made?
In red bone marrow. T cells mature in thymus, B cells mature in bone marrow.
What does the spleen do?
Filters blood, removes old RBCs, stores WBCs and platelets.
What are the major lymphatic trunks?
Jugular, Subclavian, Bronchomediastinal, Lumbar.
What are the primary lymphoid organs?
Bone marrow and thymus.
What are the secondary lymphoid organs?
Lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils.
What are the nonspecific (innate) immune defenses?
Skin, mucous membranes, inflammation, fever, NK cells, phagocytes, chemical barriers.
What are the specific (adaptive) immune responses?
T cells (cell-mediated), B cells (antibody-mediated), memory cells.
What is phagocytosis?
Process where cells like macrophages engulf and destroy pathogens.
What are NK cells?
Natural killer cells that destroy infected or cancerous cells without prior exposure.
What are cytokines?
Proteins that help immune cells communicate and coordinate responses.
What are monokines?
Cytokines secreted by monocytes/macrophages; promote WBC production.
What are haptens?
Small molecules that only trigger immune responses when bound to larger proteins.
What are the five types of antibodies?
IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, IgM.
What is the function of IgA?
Found in secretions; prevents pathogens from attaching.
What is the function of IgE?
Triggers allergic reactions.
What are the four types of acquired immunity?
Natural active, artificial active, natural passive, artificial passive.
What is anemia?
Low RBCs or hemoglobin; causes fatigue and weakness.
What is leukemia?
Cancer of white blood cells; causes fatigue, infections, swollen lymph nodes.
What is hemophilia?
Genetic disorder where blood doesn’t clot properly.
What is septicemia?
Serious bloodstream infection that can lead to organ failure.
What is lymphedema?
Swelling due to lymph buildup, often in limbs.
What is the difference between primary and secondary immune response?
Primary is slower, first exposure. Secondary is faster, uses memory cells.
