The Lymphatic System Flashcards
Lymph
Fluid in the lymphatic system
Lymph nodes
Mass of lymphoid tissue along the path of a lymphatic vessel that filters lymph and harbors white blood cells active in immunity
Lacteal
Lymphatic capillary that drains digested fats from the villi of the small intestine
Antigen
Substance that induces an immune response
Antibody
Substance produced in response to a specific response to a specific antigen; immunoglobulin
Chyle
Milky-appearing fluid absorbed into the lymphatic system from the small intestine. It consists of lymph and droplets of digested fat
Kupffer cells
Macrophages in the liver that help to fight infection
Peyer patches
Clusters of lymphatic nodules in the mucous membranes lining the distal small intestine
Phagocytosis
Engulfing of large particles through the plasma membrane
Tonsil
Mass of lymphoid tissue in the region of the pharynx
Interferon (IFN)
Group of substances released from virus-infected cells that prevent spread of infection to other cells; also non specifically boosts the immune system
Functions of the Lymphatic System
- Fluid balance
- Protection: A part of the immune system
- Absorption of fats
The 2 Main Lymphatic Ducts
- The Right Lymphatic Duct
- The Thoracic Duct
The Right Lymphatic Duct
Short vessel; that receives only the lymph that comes from the body’s superior right quadrant: the right side of the head, neck, thorax, right upper extremity; Empties into the right subclavian vein
The Thoracic Duct
Also known as Left Lymphatic Duct; receives lymph from all parts of the body except those superior to the diaphragm on the ride side; drains into the left subclavian vein
