Chapter 20 - BLG 102 - The Lymphatic System and Lymphoid Organs and Tissues

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts about the lymphatic system and lymphoid organs and tissues from the lecture notes.

Lymphatic System

A network that returns fluids from blood vessels back to the blood and includes lymphatic vessels, lymph, and lymph nodes.

Lymph

Fluid contained in lymphatic vessels that has leaked from blood vessels.

Lymphatic Vessels

A network of drainage vessels that circulate interstitial fluid, also known as lymph.

Lymph Nodes

Structures that cleanse lymph and provide a site for immune system activation.

Interstitial Fluid

Fluid that leaks from the blood and is returned to circulation by the lymphatic system.

Lymphatic Capillaries

Blind-ended vessels woven between tissue cells and blood capillaries, responsible for absorbing interstitial fluid.

Minivalves

Flap-like structures in lymphatic capillaries that allow for one-way flow of lymph.

Thoracic Duct

A large lymphatic duct that drains lymph from the rest of the body into the blood.

Right Lymphatic Duct

Drains lymph from the right upper arm and right side of the head and thorax.

T cells

Type of lymphocyte that manages immune response and can destroy infected cells.

B cells

Type of lymphocyte that produces plasma cells, which secrete antibodies.

Macrophages

Large phagocytic cells that digest foreign substances and activate T cells.

Reticular Cells

Supporting cells in lymphoid tissue that produce reticular fibers for structural support.

Secondary Lymphoid Organs

Organs where mature lymphocytes first encounter antigens and become activated, including lymph nodes and the spleen.

Primary Lymphoid Organs

Organs where T and B cells mature, primarily in the red bone marrow and thymus.

MALT

Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, a secondary lymphoid organ that includes various tissue types associated with mucosal surfaces.

Antigens

Substances perceived as foreign by the immune system, such as bacteria and viruses.

Phagocytosis

The process by which cells, such as macrophages, engulf and digest foreign particles.