Lymphatic System Lecture Flashcards
Briefly describe the general layout of the lymphatic system, the structure and functions of a lymph node
General Layout of the Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes, and organs that transport lymph, a clear fluid containing immune cells, throughout the body. It consists of:
Lymphatic Vessels: These vessels transport lymph from tissues to the lymph nodes and eventually back to the bloodstream.
Lymph Nodes: Small, bean-shaped structures that filter lymph and house immune cells.
Lymphatic Organs: Includes the spleen, thymus, and tonsils, which play roles in immune response.
Structure and Functions of a Lymph Node
Lymph nodes are organized structures that contain:
Capsule: A fibrous outer layer that provides protection.
Cortex: Contains follicles rich in B cells, responsible for antibody production.
Paracortex: Contains T cells and is involved in the cellular immune response.
Medulla: Houses macrophages and plasma cells.
Functions:
Filtration: Remove pathogens, debris, and cancer cells from lymph.
Immune Response: Activate lymphocytes in response to antigens, leading to the production of antibodies.
Briefly describe how lymph is returned to the venous system, its role in the maintenance of body fluids
Return of Lymph to the Venous System
Lymph is returned to the venous system through:
Lymphatic Collectors: These vessels converge into larger trunks.
Ducts: The right lymphatic duct drains the right upper body, while the thoracic duct drains the rest of the body.
Subclavian Veins: Lymph ultimately enters the bloodstream at the junction of the subclavian and internal jugular veins.
Role in Maintenance of Body Fluids
The lymphatic system helps maintain fluid balance by:
Collecting excess interstitial fluid: Prevents edema by draining excess fluid from tissues.
Transporting proteins: Returns proteins and other substances to the bloodstream.
Describe how the lymphatic system has clinical importance in general terms for the
detection of infection and the metastatic spread of cancer cells.
Clinical Importance
Detection of Infection: Swollen lymph nodes can indicate infection as they become activated in response to pathogens, often becoming tender and enlarged.
Metastatic Spread of Cancer: Cancer cells can spread through the lymphatic system, leading to the enlargement of lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) and potentially indicating the spread of cancer. This is crucial for staging cancer and planning treatment.
Overall, the lymphatic system plays a vital role in immunity, fluid balance, and disease detection, making it essential for overall health.
