Module 8 Flashcards
What is the main function of the lymphatic system?
The main function of the lymphatic system is to return excess fluid from the tissues back into blood circulation.
What three major functions does the lymphatic system serve?
1) it aids the immune system in destroying pathogens and filtering waste so that the lymph can safely be returned to the circulatory system.
2) it removes excess fluid, waste, debris, dead blood cells, pathogens, cancer cells and toxins from interstitial spaces
3) it works with the circulatory system to deliver nutrients, oxygen, and hormones from the blood to the cells in the tissues of the body
How does lymph flow throughout the body?
Lymphatic fluid is “pumped” through lymphatic vessels by contraction of muscles and one-way valves within the vessels.
Name the two lymph ducts in the body.
The right lymph duct and the thoracic duct.
1) Right lymph duct - The right lymph vessel collects lymph from the right thorax and the right half of the head and neck and drains into the right subclavian vein
2) Thoracic duct - drains lymph from the left side of the body and lower limbs, and drains into the left subclavian vein.
What are the three types of lymphocytes? Explain the difference.
1) T cells - T (thymus) cells; Small lymphocytes; part of the adaptive immune system; involved in cell-mediated immunity; some T cells ‘helper’ cells produce cytokines to direct the immune response and other cytotoxic T cells produce powerful enzymes that break down pathogen-infected cells; create memory cells which “remember” each specific antigen encountered and are able to mount a strong and rapid response if ever re-encountered.
2) B cells - B (bone) cells; Small lymphocytes; part of the adaptive immune system; involved in antibody-mediated immunity; respond to pathogens by producing large quantities of antibodies; create memory cells which “remember” each specific antigen encountered and are able to mount a strong and rapid response if ever re-encountered.
3) NK cells - Natural Killer cells; Large granular lymphocytes; part of the innate immune system; play a major role in in defending the body from tumours and viral infections; NK cells distinguish normal from unhealthy cells by recognizing changes in surface molecules called major histocompatibility complex (MHC); activated by a family of cytokines called interferons; activated NK cells release cytotoxic granules which kill sick cells.
Where are the following lymph nodes located?
a. Cervical
b. Axillary
c. Inguinal
d. Popliteal
a. Neck and under jaw
b. Armpits
c. Groin area
d. Behind knees
Name seven places in the body where lymph tissue can be found.
1) lungs
2) spleen
3) liver
4) tonsils
5) small intestine
6) thymus
7) lymph nodes
What happens to the thymus after puberty?
It shrinks in size and activity after puberty, and is replaced with fat
What is the function of the tonsils? Name the three types of tonsils.
Tonsils are masses of lymph tissue that are located laterally under the mucous membranes in the back of the throat. They help protect the body against microbes or antigens that may enter the oral cavity. There are 1) palatine, 2) Pharyngeal, and 3) sublingual tonsils.
What does the spleen do?
The spleen is the largest lymphoid organ in the body. It is made up of dense, pulp-like groups of lymphocytes. It functions by filtering and phagocytosing pathogens and foreign substances. It also produces lymphocytes that destroy and recycle old red blood cells. The spleen has a very rich blood supply, and at any given time, contains about a half a litre of blood.
Where are Peyer’s patches most abundant? What is their function and status?
Peyer’s patches are most abundant in the ileum, the distal portion of the small intestine. They are large oval nodules of lymphatic tissue that are located in the mucus- secreting lining of the small intestine. They decrease in number and become less prominent with age. They comprise a very important part of mucosal immunity and produce predominantly B cells which mobilize and produce antibodies against any foreign entities that are encountered in the lumen of the intestines.
What are some causes of swollen lymph glands?
The most common cause of swollen glands is infection. Cancer is another fairly common cause. Rare causes are reactions to certain drugs, glycogen storage diseases, Kawasaki disease, sarcoidosis, and certain forms of arthritis.
What is cellulite? What two tools can be used to reduce the appearance of cellulite?
Cellulite is an accumulation of water and toxic wastes in the connective tissue surrounding the fat cells, which in turn form nodules. It begins with the buildup of toxins that causes the body to react by retaining water in an effort to dilute the toxins and prevent local self poisoning. Massage and the use of specific essential oils are two ways that are effective at reducing cellulite.
What is MLD? What is its history and what is it used for?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is particularly effective in reducing cellulite and lymphedema. Developed in France in 1932, MLD has become the most recognized technique to assist lymph flow and drainage of the tissues.
What is Swedish massage? What is its purpose or what does it try to achieve?
Swedish massage refers to a variety of techniques that are specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and by rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart. The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase oxygen in the blood and to release toxins from the muscles.
