Lymphatic System Flashcards
What are the primary functions of the lymphatic system?
moves fluid around the body/fluid balance, fat absorption, immunity
What are some examples of lymphatic structures?
tonsils, thymus, spleen, appendix, lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels
What is interstitial fluid?
fluid between cells
When plasma leaves the capillaries it becomes…
interstitial fluid
What happens to interstitial fluid?
taken up by lymphatic vessels to become lymph fluid
What makes up lymph fluid?
water, built up waste, cells, proteins
Does lymphatic fluid end up back in the blood?
eventually, yes
Are there valves/pumps in lymphatic vessels?
yes
What are lymphatic capillaries?
lymphatic vessels that are not directly attached to blood vessels but found right next to blood capillaries, their job is to collect the lymph so they are very loose and leaky
What are lacteals?
specialized lymphatic vessels in the digestive system that transport fat to blood
What is chyle?
lymph + fat
What is the flow of lymph fluid?
lymphatic capillaries –> collecting vessels –> trunks –> ducts –> venous circulation
Where is lymph fluid dumped back into circulation?
near the right atrium
What is the job of lymph nodes?
function like a check point to survey for infection (filled with WBC’s)
Where are lymph nodes concentrated?
cervical, axillary, and inguinal regions
