Introduction to the Lymphatic system Flashcards
(18 cards)
What are the three parts of the lymphatic system?
- A network of lymphatic vessels (lymphatics)
- Lymph
- Lymph nodes
Lymphatic vessels facilitate one-way flow of lymph towards the heart, lymph acts as interstitial fluid and absorbed fat, and lymph nodes serve as pathogen filters.
What is the primary function of the lymphatic system?
- Drains excess interstitial fluid
- Transports dietary lipids
- Carries out immune responses
These functions are crucial for maintaining fluid balance, nutrient absorption, and immune defense.
What is the difference between interstitial fluid and lymph?
Location: interstitial fluid is found between cells, lymph is located within lymphatic vessels and lymphatic tissue.
How do lymphatic vessels differ from blood vessels?
Lymphatic vessels have thinner walls, more valves, and begin as lymphatic capillaries that are closed at one end.
What structures facilitate the flow of lymph in the body?
- Capillaries
- Collecting vessels
- Trunks
- Ducts
Lymphatic trunks include paired lumbar, bronchomediastinal, subclavian, jugular, and a single intestinal trunk.
What is the role of lymphatic capillaries?
They have greater permeability and can absorb large molecules such as proteins and lipids via lacteals.
Name the principal trunks of the lymphatic system.
- Lumbar trunks
- Intestinal trunk
- Bronchomediastinal trunks
- Subclavian trunks
- Jugular trunks
Each trunk drains specific regions of the body.
What aids the movement of lymph through lymphatic vessels?
- Skeletal muscle pump
- Respiratory pump
The skeletal muscle pump uses muscle contractions, while the respiratory pump utilizes pressure changes during inhalation.
What is the primary function of the thymus gland?
It functions strictly in T lymphocyte maturation and immunocompetence.
What are lymph nodes, and what is their function?
Secondary lymphoid organs that filter lymph and activate lymphocytes against antigens.
What is the largest single lymphoid organ?
The spleen.
List the functions of the spleen.
- Site of lymphocyte proliferation
- Immune surveillance and response
- Cleanses blood of aged cells and debris
- Stores RBC breakdown products
- Stores blood platelets
- Foetal erythrocyte production
The spleen plays a vital role in both immune function and blood maintenance.
What are the two distinct areas of the spleen?
- White pulp
- Red pulp
White pulp is associated with immune function, while red pulp is rich in macrophages for disposal of worn-out RBCs.
What are lymphatic nodules and where are they found?
Egg-shaped masses of lymphatic tissue not encapsulated, scattered throughout mucous membranes lining various tracts.
What is another term for mucosa-associated lymphatic tissue?
MALT.
Fill in the blank: The lymphatic system absorbs dietary lipids and lipid-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K through _______.
[lymphatic vessels]
True or False: Lymphatic capillaries are less permeable than blood capillaries.
False.
Fill in the blank: Lymph is formed when excess filtered fluid drains into _______.
[lymphatic vessels]
