Peripheral Vascular and Lymphatic Systems

Study Notes

The vascular system comprises vessels that transport fluids like blood and lymph.
Veins are known as capacitance vessels due to their ability to stretch and hold more blood when volume increases.
Risk factors for venous stasis: standing, sitting, bed rest, hypercoagulation, vein wall trauma, varicose veins, obesity, pregnancy, and genetics.
The lymphatic system is a separate system that retrieves fluid from tissues and returns it to the bloodstream.
Right lymphatic duct: empties into the right subclavian vein.
Thoracic duct: drains the rest of the body.
Lymphatic system functions:
- Fluid return to the bloodstream
- Defense against infection
- Absorption of fat from the small intestine
Lymph nodes:
- Small oval clumps of tissue located along lymphatic vessels
- Filter fluid before returning to the bloodstream
- Remove harmful organisms
- Pathogens are exposed to lymphocytes which trigger an antigen-specific response.
- Swelling and tenderness of nodes may indicate local inflammation.
Accessible lymph node groups for inspection and palpation:
- Cervical
- Axillary
- Epitrochlear
- Inguinal
Spleen, tonsils, and thymus: aid the lymphatic system.

Infants and Children: Lymph nodes are relatively large and superficial, making them easily palpable.
Pregnant Women: Hormonal changes cause vasodilation and decreased blood pressure. This can lead to edema, varicosities, and hemorrhoids.
Older Adults: Arteriosclerosis can cause rigid vessels, increasing the risk of peripheral artery disease.