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Lymphatic System - Anatomy & Physiology

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  • Primary functions of the lymphatic system

    Returns excess interstitial fluid to the bloodstream, absorbs dietary fats via lacteals, and provides immune defense by filtering lymph and housing lymphocytes.

  • Starting point of lymphatic vessels

    Blind-ended lymphatic capillaries located in tissues.

  • How do lymphatic vessels prevent backflow?

    They have thin walls with valves that prevent lymph from flowing backward.

  • Where do lymphatic vessels drain lymph into the bloodstream?

    Into lymphatic trunks and ducts, specifically the right lymphatic duct and thoracic duct, which empty into subclavian veins.

  • Tissues where lymphatic vessels are absent

    Avascular tissues such as cartilage, cornea, bone marrow, and the central nervous system.

  • Source of lymph fluid

    Interstitial fluid that leaks out of blood capillaries into surrounding tissues.

  • Route of lymph transport from tissues to blood

    Interstitial fluid → lymphatic capillaries → lymphatic vessels → lymph nodes → lymphatic trunks → lymphatic ducts → venous circulation.

  • Mechanisms that propel lymph through vessels

    Skeletal muscle contractions, respiratory movements, and valves in lymphatic vessels.

  • Primary function of lymph nodes

    Filter lymph, house lymphocytes, and initiate immune responses.

  • Locations of major lymph node clusters

    Cervical, axillary, and inguinal regions.

  • Role of tonsils in the lymphatic system

    Trap pathogens entering through the mouth and nose; located in the pharyngeal region (palatine, pharyngeal, lingual tonsils).

  • Functions of the spleen

    Filters blood, removes old red blood cells, stores platelets, and initiates immune responses.

  • Primary role of the thymus

    Site of T cell maturation, located superior to the heart.

  • Examples of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT)

    Peyer’s patches in intestines and the appendix.

  • Difference between diffuse and follicular lymphoid tissue

    Diffuse tissue has loosely arranged lymphocytes; follicular tissue has densely packed lymphocytes with germinal centers for B cell proliferation.

  • Structure of a lymph node

    Consists of a capsule, cortex with follicles, and medulla containing cords and sinuses.

  • Contrast spleen and lymph nodes in immune function

    Spleen filters blood and removes old RBCs; lymph nodes filter lymph and activate lymphocytes.

  • Definition of lymphedema

    Swelling caused by accumulation of lymph due to impaired lymphatic drainage.

  • What is lymphadenopathy?

    Enlargement of lymph nodes often due to infection or cancer.

  • What is lymphoma?

    Cancer originating in lymphatic tissue.

  • Definition of splenomegaly

    Enlargement of the spleen caused by infection or blood disorders.