The Lymphatic System

Question 1

Lymph

Answer 1

Lymphatic fluid comprised of WBC’s, most notably lymphocytes (e.g. NKC’s, B-cells, T-cells). Formed in the interstitial fluid of body tissues and collected through lymph capillaries where it is then transported via the thoracic duct and delivered to the subclavian vein of the heart.

Question 2

Thoracic Duct

Answer 2

The largest lymphatic vessel stemming from posterior of the chest to the root of the neck where it is drained into the circulatory system via the subclavian vein (near the heart).

Question 3

Lymph Nodes

Answer 3

Small swelling in the lymphatic system where lymph is filtered and lymphocytes are formed. Each node consists of a lymphatic vessel, artery and vein.

Question 4

Function(s) of Lymphatic System

Answer 4

Equalizes fluid distribution; transports fats and fat-soluble compounds in chylomicrons; provides sites for mounting of immune response

Question 5

Lacteals

Answer 5

Small lymphatic capillaries that absorb dietary fats in the villi of the small intestine. Once absorbed these dietary fats are packaged into chylomicrons.

Question 6

Chylomicrons

Answer 6

Lipoprotein particles that transport dietary fats from the intestines to the other locations in the body.

Question 7

Chyle

Answer 7

Milky fluid consisting of lymph and emulsified fats (e.g. chylomicrons).

Question 8

Germinal Centers

Answer 8

Sites within secondary lymphoid organs where mature B lymphocytes proliferate, differentiate, and undergo both somatic hypermutation and class switching of antibodies, in effort to mount an immune response.

Question 9

Lymphatic System

Answer 9

An overarching part of the circulatory system and the immune system, and is therefore not a closed system. It is comprised of a network of lymphatic vessels that carry lymph towards the heart.