12 Questions
What is the primary function of the lymphatic system in the body?
To maintain the balance of fluids in the body
What happens to the remaining 3 liters of fluid that seep into the body's tissues?
It is collected by the lymphatic system
What is the result of a defect in the lymphatic system that prevents it from draining fluids properly?
Edema and eventually lymphedema
How much fluid is transported from the blood vessels to the tissues of the body?
20 liters
What is the name of the fluid that is transported by the lymphatic system?
Lymphatic fluid
What is the role of the lymph nodes in the lymphatic system?
To return lymphatic fluid to the blood vessels
What is the main function of villi in the small intestine?
To absorb fats and proteins into the bloodstream
What is the primary function of lymph nodes in the body?
To manufacture and store lymphocytes
What is the name of the milky white fluid produced by the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the small intestine?
Chyle
What is the function of the lymphatic vessels in the lymphatic system?
To transport lymphatic fluid to the lymph nodes
What is the name of the condition where lymph nodes swell due to inflammation or cancer?
Lymphadenopathy
What is the function of the red pulp in the spleen?
To filter damaged red blood cells
Study Notes
The Lymphatic System
- The lymphatic system is an important part of the body's immune system and maintains fluid levels in the body.
- It absorbs fats in the digestive system and plays a crucial role in preventing infections.
Lymphatic Fluid
- The lymphatic system transports lymphatic fluid, a colorless, watery fluid, to the blood vessels and returns it to the tissues via the lymph nodes.
- About 20 liters of plasma flow through the blood vessels to the body's tissues, and 17 liters return to the blood veins, leaving 3 liters as lymphatic fluid.
Functions of the Lymphatic System
- Maintains the balance of fluids in the body by collecting excess fluids from the tissues and returning them to the bloodstream.
- Absorbs fats and proteins from the intestine and transports them to the bloodstream.
- Prevents infections and removes excess fluids in the intestine.
- Protects the body from infection by releasing lymphocytes (white blood cells) as part of the defense and protection of the body.
- Fights cancer cells.
Parts of the Lymphatic System
- Lymphatic vessels: found in all parts of the body, responsible for absorbing fluids, and contain valves that prevent the return of lymphatic fluid.
- Lymph nodes: approximately 600 in the body, found in areas such as the armpit, groin, and neck, responsible for defending the body through manufacturing and storing lymphocytes.
- Spleen: the largest lymphatic organ, located in the upper left part of the abdomen, responsible for purifying and storing blood, making white blood cells, and destroying old or damaged red blood cells.
Importance of the Lymphatic System
- A defect in the lymphatic system prevents it from properly draining fluids, leading to Edema and potentially lymphedema.
- The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in fighting infections and removing excess fluids in the intestine.
Understand the functions and components of the lymphatic system, its role in immune response and fluid balance, and what happens when it's impaired.
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