Lymphatic Vessels Overview

Which lymphatic vessel is located on the left side of the body?

What is the primary function of lymphatic vessels?

Which part of the body is known to lack lymphatic vessels?

What distinguishes larger lymphatic vessels from smaller ones?

Where do the thoracic duct and right lymphatic duct drain lymph into?

What type of lymphatic vessels carry lymph into lymph nodes?

What feature gives larger lymphatic vessels a beaded appearance?

Which of the following tissues has an extensive lymphatic network?

What is the primary structural difference between lymph nodes?

Which characteristic describes lymphatic capillaries?

Lymphatic Vessels

Lymphatic capillaries start as a network of capillaries near blood capillaries.
Capillaries merge to form larger lymphatic vessels.
Lymphatic vessels travel through lymph nodes.
Vessels end in collecting ducts (thoracic and right lymphatic ducts).
These ducts empty lymph into the bloodstream (at the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins).

Characteristics of Lymphatic Vessels

Lymphatic capillaries are wider than blood capillaries.
Endothelium is thin, allowing water, crystalloids, and proteins to pass.
Pressure allows larger particles (like blood cells) to enter capillaries.
Larger vessels have valves for one-way flow, creating a beaded appearance.

Purpose of Lymphatic Vessels

Drain fluid (lymph) containing proteins from tissues that cannot be reabsorbed into the blood.
Lymph returns to the bloodstream.
Lymphatic vessels assist veins.

Body Parts Without Lymphatics

Central nervous system: Replaced by perivascular spaces.
Bone marrow
Spleen

Lymph Nodes

Localized bean-shaped collections of lymphoid tissue.
Interrupt lymphatic flow.
Located singly or in groups in specific body locations.
Afferent lymphatics bring lymph into the node.
Efferent lymphatics carry lymph out of the node.
Each node receives several afferent lymphatics and produces fewer efferent lymphatics.

This quiz explores the structure and function of lymphatic vessels. Learn about lymphatic capillaries, their characteristics, and their role in fluid drainage and immune response. Dive into how these vessels interact with the bloodstream and areas of the body that lack lymphatics.