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# The Lymphatic System ## Chapter 6 This document discusses the lymphatic system, focusing on lymph nodes and the spleen. ### Figure 6.5 Lymph Nodes of the Face and Neck A diagram shows different lymph nodes in the face and neck area. The nodes are labeled as follows: * Submandibular nodes * D...

# The Lymphatic System ## Chapter 6 This document discusses the lymphatic system, focusing on lymph nodes and the spleen. ### Figure 6.5 Lymph Nodes of the Face and Neck A diagram shows different lymph nodes in the face and neck area. The nodes are labeled as follows: * Submandibular nodes * Deep cervical nodes * Superficial cervical nodes * Occipital nodes ### Lymph Nodes and their Functioning Lymph nodes include bacteria, dead/live phagocytes, malignant tumor cells, worn-out/damaged tissue and inhaled particles. Organic material is broken down within these nodes by macrophages and antibodies. Inorganic particles cannot be destroyed by phagocytosis, but this may not cause damage or kill a cell. Material that is not dealt with by one node, is sent to others. This process continues until the lymph is cleared before entering the blood. Sometimes incomplete phagocytosis of bacteria leads to inflammation and enlargement of the node (lymphadenopathy). ### Proliferation of Lymphocytes Activated T and B-lymphocytes multiply within lymph nodes. Antibodies produced by sensitised B-lymphocytes enter the lymph and blood draining the node. ### Figure 6.6 Scanning Electron Micrograph of Lymph Node Tissue This figure is an electron micrograph of lymph node tissue that showcases reticular cells, white blood cells and macrophages. ### The Spleen (Figs 6.7 and 4.13) The spleen is the largest lymphatic organ. It is located in the left hypochondriac region of the abdominal cavity, between the stomach's fundus and the diaphragm. It is typically 12 cm long, 7 cm wide and 2.5 cm thick, weighing approximately 200g. ### Figure 6.7 The Spleen The diagram illustrates organs associated with the spleen, including: * Superiorly and posteriorly: left colic flexure of the large intestine * Inferiorly * Anteriorly: fundus of the stomach, pancreas, and left kidney * Medially * Laterally ### Spleen Structure (Fig. 6.8) The spleen is oval-shaped with a hilum along the lower medial border. The anterior surface is covered by peritoneum. A fibroelastic capsule extends into the organ, forming trabeculae. Splign pulp, consisting of lymphocytes and macrophages, is located between the trabeculae. ### Spleen Functions This section (truncated) describes the functions of the spleen.