What are the main functions of the lymphatic system?
Drainage fo fluid
Immunity
Absorbed fat transport from gut
Return of plasma/plasma proteins
How is lymph composed?
Fluid and plasma proteins only, but gains lymphocytes as it flows and fats in the small intestine.
What is lymph flow dependant on?
Muscle contraction
Pressure changes
Gravity
Why is lymph flow unidirectional?
Valves
Why does fluid flow into extracellular spaces increase during infection?
Accumulation of proteins through osmosis.
Where are the acquired immunity functions of lymph located?
Lymph nodes.
What structure can lymph nodes have?
Isolated
Grouped
What are the secondary lymphoid follicles?
Germinal centres.
Where are deep lymph nodes located?
Abdomen; associated with mesentries.
What are superficial lymph nodes?
Less prominent; many located at base of lower limb.
Describe some lymphatic pathologies.
Primary tumours- Lymphoma
Secondary tumours- metastasis of other tumours
Mononucleotic infection (TB/Glandular fever)
Inflammatory hyperplasia
How is initial drainage of lymphatic fluid characterised?
Symmetrically- ultimately, it all collects in 2 ducts.
What does deep lymphatic drainage follow?
Route of arterial supply.
Where do the 2 lymphatic ducts empty into the venous system?
Jugular / subclavian junction.
How does the lymphatic system function in immunity?
Lymphocyte generation.
What is the spleen?
Largest lymphatic organ functioning in filter of blood.
