16 Questions
What is one of the main functions of the lymphatic system?
To filter and return lymph to the blood
Where is the spleen located?
Behind the stomach
What is the function of the thymus?
To mature immature lymphocytes
What is the function of the palatine tonsils?
To protect against pathogens entering through the mouth
Where are the pharyngeal tonsils located?
In the throat
What is the composition of lymph fluid?
Interstitial fluid and blood cells
What is the function of Peyer's patches?
To monitor the intestine for pathogens
Where is the appendix located?
In the large intestine
What substances can be found in lymph fluid?
Proteins, fats, and fat-soluble vitamins
Where are lymphocytes typically found?
Lymph nodes, spleen, and Peyer's patches
What is the primary function of lymph nodes?
Storing and filtering lymph fluid
What is unique about the lymphatic system compared to the cardiovascular system?
It is a one-way system, lacking a defined pump
What two factors help facilitate the flow of fluid through the lymphoid vessels?
Skeletal muscle pump and valves
What happens to the lymph fluid before it enters the bloodstream?
It passes through many lymphatic nodes
What is one of the primary functions of the lymphatic system?
Facilitating the absorption of dietary fats
How many primary functions does the lymphatic system have?
Three
Study Notes
Functions of the Lymphatic System
- Houses and supports the cells of the immune system
- Filters and returns lymph (interstitial fluid) to the blood
- Keeps blood volume constant
- Absorbs fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the intestine and sends them to the blood system
The Spleen
- Located behind the stomach
- Composed of red and white pulp
- Screens blood and breaks down old red blood cells for their iron
- Contains macrophages that can move out into the body in case of infection
The Thymus
- Located behind the sternum
- Part of MALT (Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue)
- Located on either side of the posterior end of the oral cavity
- Protects against pathogens entering through the throat
Tonsils
Palatine Tonsils
- Located at the back of the mouth
- Small outcropping of the large intestine with nodules of MALT
Pharyngeal Tonsils (Adenoids)
- Located high in the posterior throat
- Nodules of MALT located in the small intestine
- Protect against pathogens entering through the throat
Peyer's Patches
- Located in the small intestine
- Composed of lobules
- Lymphoid organ where immature lymphocytes mature into T lymphocytes
- Exit through blood vessels
Small Intestine
- Large mass of MALT located high in the posterior throat
- Protects against pathogens entering through the throat
Appendix
- Part of the gastrointestinal tract
- Has a number of Peyer's patches
Lymph Fluid
- Composition includes interstitial fluid, proteins, fats, and fat-soluble vitamins
- Absorbed from the intestine and transported to the blood system
Lymphocytes
- Found in lymph nodes, spleen, Peyer's patches, appendix, mucosal surfaces, and tonsils
Lymph Nodes
- Small structures containing lymphatic tissues
- Located along lymphatic routes in prominent areas such as armpits, groin, neck, and knees
- Filter fluid and trap invading cells
Lymphatic System
- A one-way system, lacking a defined pump like the heart
- Flow of fluid through lymphoid vessels relies on the respiratory pump, valves, and skeletal muscle pump
- Lymphatic capillaries pick up excess fluid from tissues and drain into veins near the heart
- Fluid passes through lymphatic nodes that filter the fluid and trap invading cells
- Three primary functions: maintaining fluid balance, facilitating absorption of dietary fats, and enhancing the immune system
Assess your knowledge of the lymphatic system's functions, including its role in immune system support, lymph filtration, and blood volume regulation. Also, explore the location and function of the spleen.
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