Lymphatic System

Question 1

Describe the three functions of the lymphatic system?

Answer 1

• Drain the excess interstitial fluid from tissue spaces & return it to the blood
• Transport lipids and lipid-soluble vitamins from the villi in the small intestines to the blood
• As part of the immune system destroys microbes & cancerous or foreign cells

Question 2

Name the cells of lymph nodes?

Answer 2

• B-cells
• T-cells
• Macrophages

Question 3

Describe the role of the cells of lymph nodes?

Answer 3

• The function of lymphocytes in the nodes is to stimulate immune responses (covered in immunity notes)
• The function of the macrophages in the nodes is to destroy foreign substances through phagocytosis

Question 4

State the location in the body of the lymphatic nodules and lymph nodes?

Answer 4

Lymphatic nodules are located in the mucous membranes of the body – tonsils & GI tract (appendix & Peyer’s patches in the small intestine)
Lymph nodes are located throughout the body and are scattered along the lymphatic vessels

Question 5

Describe the anatomical position of the spleen?

Answer 5

Located in the left hypochondriac region, between stomach & diaphragm

Question 6

Describe the function of the spleen?

Answer 6

• Remove damaged blood cells & platelets
• Store platelets (1/3 of the body’s supply)
• Stores red blood cells (250ml in adult)

Question 7

Describe the differences between cancerous nodes and infected nodes?

Answer 7

• Cancerous: Not moveable, firm, non-tender, enlarge

- Infective: Moveable, soft, very tender, enlarge