Lymphatic System

Question 1

List the main components of the lymphatic system

Answer 1

-Lymph Vessels, Lymph Nodes, Spleen, Tonsils, Thymus

Question 2

Describe the function of the above components

Answer 2

• Drain fluid & protein, transport fats
• make lymphocytes (immunity) of which B lymphocytes transform into plasma cells that make antibodies that fight infection.

Question 3

Define Lymph

Answer 3

-Similar in composition to interstitial fluid, but in the lymph vessels.

Question 4

Describe the general pathway of lymph from tissue fluid to the main ducts

Answer 4

-Lymph capillary, lymphatics, thoracic duct (lower body) or Right lymphatic duct (R. upper body) to venous system

Question 5

The thoracic duct collects lymph from what parts of the body, and empties into what vein

Answer 5

-Thoracic duct drains left upper body and all of lower body & dumps lymph into the junction of L. internal jugular and L subclavian veins.

Question 6

the right lymphatic duct collects lymph from what parts of the body, and empties into what vein?

Answer 6

-R. Lymphatic duct collects lymph from right upper body and empties into the junction between right internal jugular and right subclavian veins.

Question 7

List the 3 tonsils. Which ones are most commonly removed surgically?

Answer 7

• Palatines (most commonly removed)
• linguals
• pharyngeal

Question 8

Describe the location and function of the thymus gland and the spleen

Answer 8

• Thymus is above the heart in the mediastinum and makes T lymphocytes that function in immunity. It is unique in that it is replaced by connective tissue in adults.
• The spleen is inferior to the stomach and has red pulp where RBCs are stored and old ones are destroyed and white pulp where lymphocytes are made and microorganisms are “eaten” by phagocytes.

Question 9

Describe the purpose and location of lymph nodes

Answer 9

-Numerous locations along the lymphatics & they function to filter the lymph. This is a battleground for fighting infection and lymph nodes also make lymphocytes that fight infection & function in immunity.