The Lymphatics Flashcards
What are the key functions of the lymphatic system in the body
Return fluid and proteins to the circulatory system
Pick up fat absorbed and transfer it to the circulatory system
Serve as a filter for pathogens
What is the difference between primary and secondary lymphatic organs
Primary lymphatic organs are where immune cells become immunocompetent (red bone marrow & thymus)
Secondary Lymphatic organs and tissues include (lymph nodes, spleen, lymphatic organs)
Define pathogens
a bacterium, virus or other microorganism that can cause a disease
Define Glymphatic System
the system of structure and processes that allows soluble waste substances to pass from the cerebrospinal fluid into the surrounding tissue fluid for removal, mediated by glial astrocytes and operating mainly during sleep
Define inguinal
groin
Define axillary
armpit
Define MALT
Mucosa-associated lymphatic tissue
Describe how lymph is formed and how it circulates in the body
Lymphatic vessels -> lymph nodes -> lymph trucks (lumbar, intestinal, broncho mediastinal, subclavian and jugular trunks) -> form either thoracic duct or right lymphatic duct.
No central ‘pump’ so muscle and organ movement help to propel lymph fluid.
what is a lymph node and where are they located
Contain lymphocytes to detect and mount an immune response against the pathogen or damaged cell
Located underarms (axillary nodes), Groin (inguinal nodes), Neck (cervical Nodes), chest and abdomen
What are lymphatic nodules
Masses of lymphatic tissue that are not surrounded by a capsule
Scattered throughout the mucous membranes lining the gastrointestinal, urinary, and reproductive tracts and respiratory airways
Lymphatic nodules in these areas are also referred to as mucosa-associated lymphatic tissue (MALT) which includes tonsils, lymphoid nodules in the walls of the bronchi (respiratory tract), gut associated lymphatic (GALT), Peyer’s patches and appendix (digestive tract)
