Compendium 11
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Questions and Answers

What is the role of plasma cells in the immune response?

Plasma cells produce antibodies that bind to antigens, effectively neutralizing them.

How do memory B cells enhance the immune response upon subsequent exposure to the same pathogen?

Memory B cells divide rapidly to form plasma cells, resulting in a faster and stronger immune response.

Explain how antibodies facilitate phagocytosis.

Antibodies bind to both the antigens and macrophages, signaling the macrophages to phagocytize the complex.

Distinguish between active and passive immunity.

<p>Active immunity is gained through natural exposure to antigens or via vaccination, while passive immunity is acquired through the transfer of antibodies from another individual.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What triggers a primary immune response?

<p>A primary immune response is triggered when a B cell is activated for the first time by an antigen.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the key functional difference between the primary and secondary immune response.

<p>The primary response is slower and involves the proliferation of B cells, whereas the secondary response is faster due to pre-existing memory cells.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What physical and chemical barriers must antigens overcome to trigger an immune response?

<p>Antigens must bypass physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes, as well as chemical mediators such as inflammation and phagocytosis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does vaccination contribute to immunity against specific pathogens?

<p>Vaccination introduces antigens to the body, prompting the production of memory cells that prepare the immune system for future encounters with the pathogen.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary functions of the spleen in the immune system?

<p>The spleen filters blood, removes old red blood cells, and helps activate T and B lymphocytes in response to pathogens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the structure of the thymus and its role in T cell maturation.

<p>The thymus is a gland situated in the chest, composed of thymic lobules where T cells mature and undergo selection processes to ensure self-tolerance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the main components of the lymphatic system?

<p>The lymphatic system comprises lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels, the spleen, thymus, and lymphoid tissues that help maintain fluid balance and support immune function.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are some common disorders associated with the lymphatic system?

<p>Common lymphatic disorders include lymphedema, lymphadenopathy, and lymphoma.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain how white blood cells participate in phagocytosis.

<p>White blood cells, specifically phagocytes like neutrophils and macrophages, engulf and digest foreign particles and pathogens through the process of phagocytosis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do B cells contribute to the antibody-mediated immune response?

<p>B cells recognize specific antigens, undergo activation with help from T cells, and proliferate to produce antibodies that neutralize and mark pathogens for destruction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of memory cells in adaptive immunity?

<p>Memory cells are long-lived lymphocytes that rapidly respond to previously encountered antigens, enhancing the speed and strength of the immune response during subsequent exposures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do natural killer cells differ from T lymphocytes?

<p>Natural killer cells are part of the innate immune system; they recognize and destroy virus-infected or cancer cells without prior sensitization, unlike T lymphocytes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What triggers the inflammatory response, and what are its main characteristics?

<p>Inflammation is triggered by tissue damage, infection, or foreign invasion, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the role of cytokines in the immune response.

<p>Cytokines are signaling proteins released by immune cells that mediate and regulate immune responses, including inflammation, cell proliferation, and differentiation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do T cells play in the adaptive immune system?

<p>T cells are responsible for cell-mediated immunity, targeting infected cells and activating other immune cells.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the innate immune system differ from the adaptive immune system?

<p>The innate immune system provides immediate, non-specific defense and does not have memory, whereas the adaptive system is specific and has memory for future responses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of cilia in the respiratory passages?

<p>Cilia help to transport mucus and trapped pathogens out of the respiratory system, clearing the airways.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain the role of histamine in the immune response.

<p>Histamine promotes vasodilation and increases vascular permeability, allowing more white blood cells to reach the site of infection.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are physical barriers important in the innate immune system?

<p>Physical barriers, such as skin and mucous membranes, prevent the entry of pathogens and help to maintain health.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the function of the spleen in the immune system.

<p>The spleen filters blood and helps to remove old or damaged red blood cells, also playing a role in immune responses and storing white blood cells.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do B cells contribute to the adaptive immune response?

<p>B cells produce antibodies that specifically target and neutralize pathogens in the body.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are common lymphatic disorders that can affect the immune system?

<p>Common lymphatic disorders include lymphedema and lymphadenopathy, which can impair immune function.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of cytokines in the immune response?

<p>Cytokines are signaling molecules that facilitate communication between immune cells, enhancing the immune response.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way does the stomach contribute to the innate immune response?

<p>The acid in the stomach kills many bacteria and pathogens that are ingested, serving as a chemical barrier.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the main functions of the spleen in the lymphatic system?

<p>The spleen filters blood, removes old or damaged blood cells, and plays a role in the immune response by producing lymphocytes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the structure of the thymus and its role in T cell maturation.

<p>The thymus is a specialized organ located behind the sternum, and it facilitates the maturation of T cells by providing a unique environment for their development.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary functions of the lymphatic system?

<p>The lymphatic system is responsible for maintaining fluid balance, absorbing fats, and defending the body against infections by filtering lymph through lymph nodes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are common disorders associated with the lymphatic system?

<p>Common disorders include lymphedema, lymphadenopathy, and infections such as lymphangitis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain the activation process of helper T cells during an immune response.

<p>Helper T cells are activated when they identify a non-self antigen presented by antigen-presenting cells, which leads to the initiation of the immune response.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the spleen in the immune system?

<p>The spleen filters blood and helps in the removal of pathogens and dead cells, while also serving as a site for immune cell activation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the thymus contribute to T cell maturation?

<p>The thymus provides an environment for T cells to mature and undergo selection to ensure they can recognize 'self' from 'non-self' antigens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the main functions of the lymphatic system?

<p>The lymphatic system transports lymph fluid, collects excess interstitial fluid, and facilitates the movement of immune cells throughout the body.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name one common disorder of the lymphatic system and its impact.

<p>Lymphedema, which results in swelling due to lymph fluid accumulation, can impair mobility and increase infection risk.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What mechanisms are involved in the innate immune response?

<p>The innate immune response includes physical barriers like skin, inflammatory responses, and the action of white blood cells.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes adaptive immunity from innate immunity?

<p>Adaptive immunity is specific to particular pathogens and involves memory cells, whereas innate immunity is non-specific and immediate.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain how T cells recognize pathogens.

<p>T cells recognize pathogens through antigenic receptors that bind to specific antigens presented on the surface of infected cells.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the immune and lymphatic systems?

<p>The immune system is integrated within the lymphatic system, which transports immune cells and antigens throughout the body.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the role of inflammation in the immune response.

<p>Inflammation acts to localize infection, recruit immune cells, and promote healing by increasing blood flow and permeability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for the body to distinguish between 'self' and 'non-self'?

<p>It is crucial for preventing autoimmune diseases, where the immune system attacks the body’s own cells, leading to tissue damage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a pathogen and give two examples?

<p>A pathogen is a foreign agent that can cause disease, such as bacteria and fungi.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do T-cells and B-cells recognize pathogens?

<p>T-cells and B-cells recognize pathogens through antigenic receptors that identify foreign proteins as 'non-self'.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the two main categories of immunity?

<p>The two main categories of immunity are innate (non-specific) immunity and adaptive (systemic) immunity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the lymphatic system?

<p>The lymphatic system serves as a transport system for immune cells and antigens throughout the body.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the difference between innate and adaptive immunity.

<p>Innate immunity offers a non-specific response to pathogens, while adaptive immunity provides a specific response based on prior exposure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do antigens play in the immune response?

<p>Antigens introduce foreign proteins into the body, prompting T-cells and B-cells to initiate an immune response.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the physical barriers involved in innate immunity?

<p>Physical barriers in innate immunity include the skin and mucous membranes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the ability to distinguish 'self' from 'non-self' important for the immune system?

<p>This distinction is crucial to prevent the immune system from attacking the body's own cells while targeting foreign pathogens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the bone marrow in haematopoiesis?

<p>Bone marrow produces red and white blood cells as well as platelets, which are crucial due to their short lifespan.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do reticular fibres contribute to the structure of lymphatic tissue?

<p>Reticular fibres act as filters in lymphatic tissue, trapping microorganisms and providing a network for lymphocytes and macrophages to anchor to.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between encapsulated and nonencapsulated lymphatic tissues?

<p>Encapsulated tissues, like lymph nodes and spleen, are surrounded by a connective tissue capsule, whereas nonencapsulated tissues, such as MALT, lack this capsule.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do lymph nodes play in filtering lymph?

<p>Lymph nodes filter lymph to remove substances like bacteria through phagocytosis or by stimulating lymphocyte proliferation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way do lymphatic nodules differ from diffuse lymphatic tissue?

<p>Lymphatic nodules are denser aggregations of lymphocytes found in loose connective tissue, while diffuse lymphatic tissue is more spread out.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to cancer cells in lymph nodes?

<p>Cancer cells often migrate to lymph nodes, where they can be trapped and proliferate.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are macrophages important in lymphatic tissue?

<p>Macrophages remove pathogens and cellular debris through phagocytosis, playing a crucial role in immune defense.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) function in the immune system?

<p>MALT acts as the first line of defense against invaders by being strategically located beneath epithelial surfaces.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the reticular cells in lymphatic tissue?

<p>Reticular cells produce a network of reticular fibers that supports lymphocytes and macrophages and filters lymph.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are Peyer's patches and where are they primarily found?

<p>Peyer's patches are lymphatic nodules found in the loose connective tissue of the digestive system, aiding in immune surveillance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of helper T cells in the immune response?

<p>Helper T cells investigate pathogens and can activate both B cells and cytotoxic T cells to mount an immune response.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does HIV affect helper T cells?

<p>HIV binds to CD4 proteins on helper T cells, leading to their destruction and impairing the immune response.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What conditions arise when helper T cell counts fall below 200 per cubic mm?

<p>When helper T cells drop below 200 per cubic mm, a person may have contracted AIDS, leading to severe immune dysfunction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the lymphatic system?

<p>The lymphatic system maintains fluid balance, absorbs fats, and helps defend against infections.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the composition of lymph.

<p>Lymph is composed of water plus solutes from plasma and cells, including ions, nutrients, hormones, and waste products.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do lymphatic capillaries differ from blood capillaries?

<p>Lymphatic capillaries are more permeable than blood capillaries and lack a basement membrane, allowing for greater fluid uptake.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What biological mechanism allows the body to increase temperature in response to infection, and why is this beneficial?

<p>The body increases temperature through fever as part of the innate immune response, which helps to kill certain pathogens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain how swollen lymph nodes indicate an immune response.

<p>Swollen lymph nodes occur due to an increased number of B and T cells in the lymphatic system as the body responds to infection.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do macrophages play in the immune response?

<p>Macrophages engulf and present pathogens or antigens to helper T cells, initiating an immune response.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is HAART, and how does it relate to HIV treatment?

<p>HAART, or Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy, helps control HIV replication, allowing infected individuals to manage the virus and live longer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Identify two factors that influence microbial growth and elaborate on their importance.

<p>Temperature and moisture are critical factors, as they create optimal conditions for microbial replication.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain the function of lymph nodes in the lymphatic system.

<p>Lymph nodes filter lymph and house immune cells like B and T lymphocytes to respond to pathogens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the skin act as a defense mechanism against infections?

<p>The skin serves as a physical barrier that protects the body from pathogens trying to enter through cuts or abrasions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of memory B and T cells in the immune system?

<p>Memory B and T cells facilitate a quicker and more effective response upon subsequent exposures to the same pathogen.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Discuss the role of macrophages in the immune response.

<p>Macrophages take up antigens and present them to helper T cells, which activates the adaptive immune response.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of lymph nodes in the immune system?

<p>Lymph nodes activate immune responses and filter lymph fluid to detect foreign antigens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the tonsils contribute to the immune system?

<p>The tonsils protect against bacteria and harmful materials and play a role in immune memory.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the composition and function of the spleen.

<p>The spleen contains red pulp and white pulp; it filters blood, destroys defective red blood cells, and aids in immune responses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the thymus play in T cell development?

<p>The thymus is the site where T cells mature, allowing them to enter the circulatory system after development.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the consequences of a splenectomy?

<p>A person can live without a spleen but will be more prone to infections due to compromised immune function.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do afferent and efferent vessels function in lymph nodes?

<p>Afferent vessels carry lymph into the node, while efferent vessels carry lymph out of the node.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of tissue makes up the tonsils?

<p>The tonsils are made up of stratified squamous epithelium and lymphoid tissue.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the spleen located in the left hypochondriac region?

<p>The spleen's position, posterior to the stomach and superior to the kidney, allows it to filter blood effectively.</p> Signup and view all the answers

At what age is the thymus fully developed?

<p>The thymus is fully developed at 12 months of age.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of macrophages in the spleen?

<p>Macrophages in the spleen act to phagocytose pathogens and dead cells, playing a key role in immune defense.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Adaptive immunity

  • Specific immune response triggered by exposure to a particular pathogen

  • Characterized by specificity and memory

  • Mediated by lymphocytes: B cells and T cells

Cell-mediated immunity

  • Immunity mediated by T cells
  • T cells target intracellular antigens (within cells), mainly viruses
  • T cells recognize MHC class 1 molecules displaying altered proteins on infected cells
  • Helper T cells enhance immune response by stimulating cytotoxic T cells

Cytotoxic T cells

  • Destroy infected cells by releasing cytotoxic substances
  • Create holes in cell membranes leading to cell lysis
  • Form memory cells, enabling quicker response in future encounters
  • Effective against intracellular pathogens

Antibody Mediated Immunity

  • Immunity mediated by B cells
  • B cells target extracellular antigens (outside cells), particularly bacteria
  • B cells recognize and bind to specific antigens
  • Helper T cells, recognizing the same antigen, stimulate B cell division
  • B cell proliferation generates plasma cells and memory cells
  • Plasma cells produce antibodies specific to the antigen
  • Antibodies neutralize pathogens in various ways: inactivation, agglutination, and facilitating phagocytosis
  • Memory cells retain the ability to quickly produce specific antibodies upon re-exposure

Innate immunity

  • Non-specific defense present from birth
  • Offers immediate protection from pathogens and antigens
  • Responds the same way to each exposure (no memory)
  • Acts as the first line of defense: physical barriers, chemical mediators, and white blood cells.

Physical barriers

  • Prevent entry or remove microbes
  • Examples: skin, mucous membranes, saliva, tears, gastric acid, urine, ciliary action in respiratory passages, coughing and sneezing

Chemical Mediators

  • Promote phagocytosis and inflammation
  • Examples: histamine, cytokines

White blood cells (Leukocytes)

  • Produced in bone marrow or lymphatic tissue
  • Circulate in the blood and lymphatic system
  • Attracted to sites of injury or infection by chemical signals
  • Perform phagocytosis (engulf foreign particles)
  • Release chemicals to recruit other immune cells

Different types of White blood cells

  • Neutrophils: First responders, key in acute inflammation
  • Macrophages: Highly effective phagocytes, important in later stages of inflammation and tissue repair
  • Basophils: Involved in immunosurveillance, release histamine
  • Eosinophils: Combat parasitic infections, participate in allergic responses
  • Natural killer cells: Eliminate virus-infected or cancerous cells

Inflammation

  • Local tissue response to injury
  • Aimed at removing debris, invaders, and preventing further pathogen entry
  • Characterized by: redness, heat, swelling, pain

Fever

  • Generalized response of the body to tissue damage and infection
  • Increased body temperature, often associated with inflammation and infection
  • Enhances macrophage activity, reduces microbial growth, and supports tissue repair

Immune Disfunction - HIV

  • HIV targets helper T cells, which are crucial for adaptive immunity
  • HIV destroys helper T cells through infection and immune response
  • Depletion of helper T cells impairs both antibody-mediated and cell-mediated immunity
  • Leads to increased susceptibility to infections and cancers
  • Can progress to AIDS

### Lymphatic System Function

  • Fluid balance: Excess interstitial fluid becomes lymph and is transported back to the circulatory system
  • Fat absorption: Absorbs fats and other substances from the digestive tract
  • Defense: Filters lymph and blood for foreign substances

### Anatomy of the Lymphatic System

  • Lymph: Fluid within the lymphatic system
  • Lymphatic vessels: Carry lymph away from tissues
  • Lymphatic tissues: Specialized tissues containing lymphocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells
  • Lymph nodes: Filter lymph
  • Tonsils: Lymphatic organs in the throat
  • Spleen: Lymphatic organ filtering blood.
  • Thymus: Site of T cell development and maturation

### Lymph

  • Contains water, solutes, and cells
  • Returns to the circulatory system via veins, maintaining fluid balance

Lymphatic vessels

  • Highly permeable capillaries, allowing fluid and cells to enter
  • Capillaries join to form lymphatic vessels.
  • Vessels equipped with valves to ensure one-way flow
  • Lymph nodes are distributed along lymphatic vessels.
  • Lymph trunks: Collect lymph from different regions
  • Lymphatic ducts: Drain lymph into specific veins
  • Lymph movement is facilitated by skeletal muscle contractions

### Lymphatic tissues and organs

  • Contain lymphatic tissue, which is responsible for immune functions
  • Lymphocytes: B and T cells, essential for adaptive immunity

Pathogens & Antigens

  • Pathogens are foreign agents that can cause disease.
  • Different types of pathogens include bacteria (e.g., Staphylococci, Salmonella), fungi (e.g., Candida), Protozoa (e.g., Amoeba), and parasites (e.g., worms).
  • Pathogens introduce foreign proteins called antigens into the body.
  • Antigenic receptors on T-cells and B-cells recognize these antigens as "non-self" and initiate immune responses to eliminate them.
  • Each pathogen can have multiple antigens.

Immunity

  • The ability to resist harm from foreign and internal threats.
  • The body distinguishes between "self" and "non-self".
  • External threats include microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, fungi, viruses, and toxins).
  • Internal threats include cancer cells.
  • Two categories of immunity: innate (non-specific) and adaptive (specific).
  • Innate immunity is the body's initial response to any pathogen, regardless of its type.
  • Adaptive immunity involves B-cell and T-cell responses that recognize specific pathogens.
  • Both innate and adaptive immunity work together to protect the body.

Immune vs Lymphatic System

  • The lymphatic system is a transport network for immune cells and antigens throughout the body.
  • It also contains tissues where immune cells reside.
  • The immune system comprises proteins, cells, tissues, and organs that are widely distributed throughout the body.

Innate Immunity

  • Physical barriers include skin and mucous membranes.
  • Inflammation is an immune response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain.
  • Chemical mediators are substances that regulate the immune response.
  • White blood cells (leukocytes) are crucial components of the innate immune response.

Adaptive Immunity

  • Macrophages engulf pathogens or antigens.
  • Helper T cells investigate the pathogen and trigger an immune response if it is identified as "non-self".
  • Helper T cells activate B cells that have bound to the pathogen, causing them to proliferate into plasma cells and memory B cells.
  • Plasma cells produce antibodies.
  • Memory B cells remain in the immune system, providing long-term immunity against the same pathogen.
  • Helper T cells can also activate cytotoxic T cells that have identified the pathogen/antigen.
  • Cytotoxic T cells proliferate and kill cells infected with the pathogen.
  • Memory T cells are produced to provide future protection against the same pathogen.

Immune System Dysfunction: HIV/AIDS

  • HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infects helper T cells by binding to the CD4 protein on their surface.
  • HIV infects and destroys helper T cells.
  • The destruction of helper T cells impairs both antibody-mediated and cell-mediated immunity.
  • A normal helper T cell count is around 1200 per cubic millimeter.
  • When the count drops below 200 per cubic millimeter, the individual is considered to have AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
  • Antibody levels decrease, leading to weakened immunity.
  • HIV is believed to have originated in the Congo and spread to the US through Haiti in the late 1960s/70s.
  • The CDC first described AIDS in the US in 1981.
  • AIDS makes individuals vulnerable to ordinary infections that can become life-threatening, including Pneumocystis pneumonia, tuberculosis, syphilis, and Candidiasis.
  • There is an increased risk of cancer in individuals with AIDS.
  • HIV transmission occurs through contact with infected bodily fluids.
  • Treatment of HIV involves highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) to control virus replication.
  • HAART has transformed HIV from a death sentence to a chronic condition where individuals can live for many years.
  • Treatment also involves managing secondary infections and malignancies.

Functions of the Lymphatic System

  • Fluid balance: Excess interstitial fluid enters lymphatic capillaries and becomes lymph.
  • Fat absorption: Lacteals in the digestive tract absorb fats and other substances.
  • Defense: Lymph nodes and the spleen filter lymph and blood to remove microorganisms and other foreign substances.

Anatomy of the Lymphatic System

  • Lymph is the fluid contained within the lymphatic system composed of water and solutes from plasma and cells.
  • Lymphatic vessels are a network of tubes that carry lymph away from tissues.
  • Lymphatic tissues are specialized tissues within the lymphatic system that support immune functions.
  • Lymphatic nodules are dense aggregations of lymphatic tissue.
  • Lymph nodes are essential for filtering lymph.
  • The tonsils are lymphatic organs located in the nasopharynx and oral cavity.
  • The spleen is a lymphatic organ located in the left upper abdomen.
  • The thymus is a lymphatic organ located in the superior mediastinum.

Lymph

  • Lymph is composed of water and solutes from plasma and cells.
  • It returns to the circulatory system via veins, playing a crucial role in fluid balance.

Lymphatic Vessels

  • Carry lymph away from the tissues.
  • Lymphatic capillaries are more permeable than blood capillaries and lack a basement membrane.
  • Lymphatic capillaries join to form lymphatic vessels.
  • Lymphatic vessels have valves that ensure unidirectional flow of lymph.
  • Lymph nodes are located along lymphatic vessels and filter lymph.
  • Lymph trunks collect lymph from different regions of the body.
  • Lymphatic ducts drain lymph from the body into major veins:
    • Right lymphatic duct drains the right side of the head, right upper limb, and right thorax.
    • Thoracic duct drains the rest of the body.
  • Skeletal muscle contractions help move lymph through the vessels.

Lymphatic Tissues and Organs

  • Lymphatic organs contain lymphatic tissue (lymphocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells).
  • Lymphocytes are white blood cells derived from bone marrow.
  • Reticular fibers, produced by reticular cells, create a network that filters lymph and provides an anchor for lymphocytes and macrophages.
  • Lymphoid tissue may be encapsulated (e.g., lymph nodes, spleen, thymus) or non-encapsulated (e.g., MALT).

Diffuse Lymphatic Tissue

  • Dispersed lymphocytes and macrophages.
  • Found in the mucosa and periphery of lymphoid nodules.

Lymphatic Nodules

  • Denser aggregations of lymphocytes.
  • Numerous in loose connective tissue of digestive (Peyer's patches), respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems.

Lymph Nodes

  • The only structures that filter lymph.
  • Macrophages remove bacteria and other substances through phagocytosis, or stimulate lymphocytes to proliferate.
  • Cancer cells can migrate to lymph nodes, proliferate, and potentially spread to the circulatory system.
  • Lymph nodes have afferent (in) and efferent (out) vessels.
  • They activate immune responses.

Tonsils

  • Large groups of lymphoid tissue in the nasopharynx and oral cavity.
  • Protect against bacteria and other harmful materials.
  • Types of Tonsils
    • Palatine: The largest and most common.
    • Pharyngeal: Posterior wall of the nasopharynx.
    • Lingual: Base of the tongue.
  • Composed of stratified squamous epithelium
  • Play a role in immune memory.

Spleen

  • Located in the left upper abdomen.
  • Similar in size to a kidney, but can increase in size with age and disease.
  • Has a hilum where blood vessels and nerves enter.
  • Blood enters the spleen through the splenic artery, is filtered, and exits through the splenic vein.
  • Red pulp is associated with veins and contains macrophages and red blood cells (75% of spleen volume).
  • White pulp is associated with arteries and contains lymphatic tissues (25% of spleen volume).
  • Functions:
    • Filters and monitors blood, detects and responds to foreign antigens/bacteria.
    • Destroys defective red blood cells.
    • Regulates blood volume.
    • Stores a limited reserve of red blood cells.
  • Can rupture in traumatic abdominal injuries.
  • Splenectomy (removal of the spleen) is possible, but increases susceptibility to infections).

Thymus

  • Located in the superior mediastinum.
  • Fully developed at 12 months of age.
  • Surrounded by a connective tissue capsule.
  • Contains a cortex (numerous lymphocytes) and a medulla (fewer lymphocytes).
  • Site of T cell maturation.
  • Has endocrine functions.
  • Most mature T cells enter the circulatory system but some remain in the thymus to react to foreign substances.

Overview of the Lymphatic System

  • The lymphatic system is essential for fluid balance, fat absorption, and defense against infection.
  • Key components include lymphatics, vessels, tissues, and organs.
  • It plays a crucial role in the body by transporting immune cells and filtering lymph.

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This quiz covers essential concepts of immunology, including the roles of plasma cells, memory B cells, antibodies, and the differences between active and passive immunity. Understand how vaccinations enhance immunity and the barriers antigens must overcome to trigger an immune response. Test your knowledge on the primary and secondary immune responses and their key differences.

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