L12 : lymphatics of the head and neck

Question 1

what is the function of the lymphatic system ?

Answer 1

to collect , filter , and return excess interstitial fluid to the venous system

absorb fat and fat soluable vitamins

defends against micro-organisms

Question 2

what is plentiful in lymph ?

Answer 2

lymphocytes and other WBCs

Question 3

what are the 2 lymph ducts in the body and what parts do they drain ?

Answer 3

right lymphatic duct : carries lymph from right arm , right thorax , and right side of head

left lymphatic duct/ thoracic duct : carries lymph from remainder of the body

Question 4

where does the filtered lymph rejoin the circulatory system ?

Answer 4

There are 2 connections into the venous system at the junction of the internal jugular vein and the subclavian vein: right lymphatic duct and thoracic duct

Question 5

what are lymphatic capillaries composed of ?

Answer 5

overlapping endothelial cells

Question 6

superficial submental lymph nodes:

Answer 6

medial portion of inferior lip , tip of tongue , chin , mandibular incisors and associated gingiva , anterior floor of mouth…….. anything else + submental nodes = submandibular nodes

Question 7

jugulodigastric deep lymph nodes:

Answer 7

palatine tonsils , posterior 1/3rd of tongue , occasionally mandibular molars

Question 8

upper deep cervical lymph nodes:

Answer 8

parotid 
retropharyngeal 
occipital 
mastoid nodes 
submandibular 
superficial cervical 
palatine tionsils