Lymphatic System Flashcards
What is the main function of the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system helps maintain fluid balance, defends against infections, and assists in the circulation of lymph to support both the immune and circulatory systems.
What are the primary components of the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system consists of lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, and lymphatic organs such as the thymus, spleen, and sections of the small intestine.
What role does lymph play in the lymphatic system?
Lymph absorbs and transports excess fluid and particulate matter from tissues back to the bloodstream, preventing fluid imbalance and supporting the body’s filtration system.
How do lymphatic vessels facilitate lymph movement?
Lymphatic vessels transport lymph unidirectionally from tissues to the venous system, relying on body movement, gravity, and arterial pulsation for flow, as they lack a central pump.
What is the function of lymph nodes in the lymphatic system?
Lymph nodes purify lymph by filtering out foreign bodies like antigens using macrophages, and they play a crucial role in the body’s immune response.
What are the key lymphatic organs and their functions?
The thymus matures T-cells, the spleen filters blood and recycles old red blood cells, and Peyer’s patches in the small intestine monitor and prevent the growth of pathogenic bacteria.
What are the types of lymphocytes and their roles?
T-cells manage cell-mediated immunity and include cytotoxic, helper, and suppressor T-cells. B-cells are responsible for antibody-mediated immunity, producing antibodies and having memory cells for long-term immunity.
Describe the flow of lymph through the body.
Lymph flows from the lower extremities through lymphatic vessels to nodes, then to the thoracic duct or right lymphatic duct, entering the venous system at the venous angles, and is filtered through organs like the spleen and thymus.
How does the lymphatic system contribute to the body’s immunity?
By producing, maintaining, and distributing lymphocytes that fight infection, and by filtering lymph to remove foreign bodies, the lymphatic system is integral to the body’s defence mechanisms.
What is the significance of sentinel lymph nodes?
Sentinel lymph nodes are the first to receive lymph drainage from a tumour area. Their status can help determine the spread of cancer and guide treatment decisions.
