Lymphatic System Flashcards
What are the primary functions of the lymphatic system?
Maintain fluid balance, facilitate immune defense by producing and transporting lymphocytes, and absorption and transport of fats amd fat soluble vitamins from the digestive system through lacteals.
What is lymph, and how is it formed?
Lymph is clear fluid that contains white blood cells, especially lymphocytes. It is formed when interstitial fluid, derived from plasma, enters the lymphatic capillaries.
What are the main components of the lymphatic system?
Lymph-Lymphatic Vessels- Lymph Nodes- Thymus- Spleen- Tonsils- Peyers Patch in the Intestine- Bone Marrow
What is the role of lymph nodes in the lymphatic system?
Lymph nodes filter lymph to remove pathogens, debris, and cancer cells. They also house lymphocytes and macrophages that participate in immune responses.
What are the two main types of lymphocytes, and what are their roles?
B lymphocytes (B cells): Produces antibodies to target specific pathogens.
T lymphocytes (T cells): Kill infected cells and regulate immune responses.
How does the lymphatic system contribute to immunity?
- Filters harmful substances through lymph nodes.
- Produces lymphocytes to fight infection.
- Facilitates the transport of antigens to lymph nodes for immune recognition.
What is the function of the spleen in the lymphatic system?
The spleen filters blood, removing old or damaged red blood cells and pathogens. It also stores platelets and white blood cells and supports immune function.
What are lacteals, and what is their role in the lymphatic system?
Lacteals are specialised lymphatic capillaries located in the small intestine, they absorb dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins and transport them as chyle.
What is oedema, and how is it related to the lymphatic system?
Oedema is the accumulation of excess fluid in the tissues. It can occur when the lymphatic system is unable to drain interstitial fluid effectively, such as in lymphodema.
How do lymphatic vessels differ from blood vessels?
They carry lymph, they have thinner walls and more valves than veins, and they lack a pump like the heart, relying on skeletal movement and pressure changes for flow.
What is the role of the thymus in the lymphatic system?
The thymus is where T lymphocytes mature and become immunocompetent. It is most active during child hood and shrinks after puberty.
What are peyers patch, and where are they located?
Peyers patch are clusters of lymphoid tissue found in the walls of the small intestine, they monitor intestinal bacteria and prevent the growth of pathogenic microbes.
What are the differences between innate and adaptive immunity in the lymphatic system?
Innate immunity: Non-specific, immediate response (eg. Macrophages, natural killer cells).
Adaptive immunity: Specific, slower response involving B and T lymphocytes and memory cells.
What is the significance of the thoracic duct in the lymphatic system?
The thoracic duct is the largest lymphatic vessel, it drains lymph from most of the body into the bloodstream at the left subclavian veins.
What happens during lymphodema, and what causes it?
Lymphoedema is the swelling caused by lymph accumulation due to blockages or damage to lymphatic vessels, causes include surgery, radiation, infection, or genetic conditions.
