Lymphatics

Question 1

When does the lymphatic system form and from what germ layer primarily?

Answer 1

During the 5th week of gestation with significant presence during the 20th week

Mainly from mesoderm

Question 2

What are the 4 major roles in the physiologic function of the lymphatic system?

Answer 2

Immune, digestive, fluid balance, waste

Question 3

What organs are pressure sensitive and require the diaphragm for movement of fluids within the organs?

Answer 3

Spleen and liver

Question 4

Function of spleen?

Answer 4

Destroy damaged/deformed RBCs
Synthesize Ig’s
Clear bacteria

Question 5

Function of Liver?

Answer 5

Half of the body’s lymph is formed here
Clears bacteria
“Gate-keeper” of the shared hepato-biliary
Pancreatic venous and lymphatic drainage

Question 6

Function of thymus?

Answer 6

Maturation site for T-cells

Little or no function in adults

Question 7

Function of tonsils?

Answer 7

Provide cells to influence and build immunity early in life

Nonessential to adult immune function

Question 8

Types of tonsils?

Answer 8

Palatine - lateral pharynx

Lingual - posterior 1/3 of tongue

Pharyngeal - adenoids at nasopharyngeal border

Question 9

What is the path of lymph flow through a lymph node?

Answer 9

Afferent lymphatics —> subcapsular space —> outer cortex —> deep cortex —> medullary sinus —> efferent lymphatics

Question 10

What is the effect of the autonomics on the lymph valves?

Answer 10

Increased sympathetic tone = tighter valves and decreased lymph flow

Question 11

What is the common compensatory pattern?

Answer 11

LRLR

Question 12

What are the transition zones of the spine for Zink’s pattern?

Answer 12

Tentorium Cerebelli, Thoracic Inlet, Thoracolumbar Diaphragm, Pelvic Diaphragm