Lymphatic System Flashcards
Describe the three functions of the lymphatic system?
- Drain the excess interstitial fluid from tissue spaces & return it to the blood
- Transport lipids and lipid-soluble vitamins from the villi in the small intestines to the blood
- As part of the immune system destroys microbes & cancerous or foreign cells
Name the cells of lymph nodes?
- B-cells
- T-cells
- Macrophages
Describe the role of the cells of lymph nodes?
- The function of lymphocytes in the nodes is to stimulate immune responses (covered in immunity notes)
- The function of the macrophages in the nodes is to destroy foreign substances through phagocytosis
State the location in the body of the lymphatic nodules and lymph nodes?
Lymphatic nodules are located in the mucous membranes of the body – tonsils & GI tract (appendix & Peyer’s patches in the small intestine)
Lymph nodes are located throughout the body and are scattered along the lymphatic vessels
Describe the anatomical position of the spleen?
Located in the left hypochondriac region, between stomach & diaphragm
Describe the function of the spleen?
- Remove damaged blood cells & platelets
- Store platelets (1/3 of the body’s supply)
- Stores red blood cells (250ml in adult)
Describe the differences between cancerous nodes and infected nodes?
- Cancerous: Not moveable, firm, non-tender, enlarge
- Infective: Moveable, soft, very tender, enlarge