Lymphatic system Flashcards
Lymphatic System Function
1) Supports Cardiovascular System
returns excess fluid to circulatory system via lymphatic vessels
2) Immunity and Protection
Lymph nodes, lymph tissue, and lymph organs pick up debris, filter bacteria and aid in developing immunity
Lymphatic System consists of
lymph fluid
lymph nodes
lymph capillaries -> lymph vessels ->lymph
ducts
lymphatic tissue & organs
Cervical lymph nodes
Drains and filters from the head and
neck
Axillary lymph nodes
Drains and filters from the breasts
Inguinal lymph nodes
Drains and filters from the lower
extremities
What are the 2 major Lymph Ducts
right lymphatic duct:
empties at junction of right internal jugular and right subclavian veins
thoracic duct:
empties into junction of left internal jugular and left subclavian veins
cisterna chyli is most inferior part of thoracic duct
How does lymph move
In response to contraction of the skeletal
muscles
Movement of the chest during respirations
Contraction of smooth muscles
Structures & Organs in the
Lymphatic System
Lymph node
Tonsils
Lymph vessels
Lymphocytes
Spleen
Thymus
Lymph node
site of filtration of the lymphatic
system – contain macrophages
Tonsils
small masses of lymph tissue – protect
throat and respiratory system
Spleen
organ that acts as a recycling unit and
filter system
Thymus
small gland that acts as a nursery to
T-cells
Changes with Aging in youth
infancy
thymus aids in development of immune system during prenatal period and for first few months after birth
puberty
thymus shrinks but remains active
Changes with Aging in older adults
decreased lymphatic flow as muscle mass and strength decreases
Thymus has become adipose tissue
normal changes with aging
Macrophages slow down, which destroys bacteria
and foreign cells slowly
Immune system struggles to distinguish self from
non-self
Fewer white blood cells, less ability to defend
against infections
do not produce necessary proteins needed for fighting against bacterial infections
Antibiotics less effective
