Lymphatic System Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is the primary function of the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system helps the body fight infection, remove toxins and waste, and maintain fluid balance. It works alongside the circulatory system and is vital for immune defense.
What are the main components of the lymphatic system?
Lymph fluid
Lymph vessels
Lymph nodes
Lymphoid organs (e.g., spleen, thymus)
What is lymph fluid and how is it formed?
Lymph is a clear fluid rich in lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell). It is formed when blood plasma leaks out of capillaries due to pressure, collects in tissues, and drains into lymph vessels.
What does lymph fluid typically contain?
Water
Proteins
Glucose
Lipids
Salts
Leukocytes (white blood cells)
Composition can vary by location, health, and diet of the animal.
What is the role of lymph vessels?
Lymph vessels transport lymph fluid from tissues back into the circulatory system, helping maintain fluid balance and remove waste products.
What are lymph nodes and what do they do?
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that filter lymph fluid. They remove pathogens, waste, and toxins and contain immune cells that destroy harmful microorganisms.
Name some key lymph nodes and their locations.
Submandibular – under the jaw
Cervical – in the neck
Axillary – in the armpits
Inguinal – in the groin
Popliteal – behind the knees
Thoracic duct – major lymphatic drainage vessel
What are the primary lymphatic organs and their functions?
Spleen: Controls red blood cell levels, stores immune cells, and helps mature B-lymphocytes (which produce antibodies).
Thymus: Located near the heart; site where T-lymphocytes mature (destroy virus-infected cells and coordinate immune responses).
What are the major functions of the lymphatic system?
Returns interstitial fluid to the circulatory system
Filters lymph to remove waste and pathogens
Produces and transports lymphocytes and antibodies
Transports digested fats from the intestines for storage
What is Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)?
A heart condition where the mitral valve degenerates, leading to backflow of blood.
Symptoms:
Heart murmur
Coughing
Shortness of breath
Reduced exercise tolerance
Treatment:
Medication to remove fluid and ease heart strain
Low-sodium diet and exercise restriction
What causes a heart murmur?
Heart murmurs result from abnormal blood flow due to structural heart defects, such as faulty valves or malformed chambers.
Symptoms:
Coughing
Weakness
Limited exercise capacity
Prognosis: Depends on severity—may self-resolve or require medical/surgical intervention.
What is Von Willebrand Disease?
A genetic bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in a clotting factor.
Types:
Type 1: Mild
Type 3: Severe
Symptoms:
Excessive bleeding
Blood in urine/feces
Joint lameness
Poor clotting from minor injuries
Management: No cure—focus on preventing and managing bleeding.
