Medical Terminology Chapter 7- Lymphatic System/ Immune System (Extended)

Lymphatic system

A system of lymph notes and other organs that absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins through the lacteals of the small intestine, remove waste products from the tissues and cooperate with the immune system.

Villi

Finger like projections that line the small intestine

Lacteals

specialized structures of the lymphatic system that absorb those fats that cannot be transported by the bloodstream. These dietary fats are transformed in the cells of the █████. The lymphatic vessels then return them to the venous circulation so they can be used throughout the body as nutrients.

Interstitial fluid/ intercellular/ tissue fluid

Plasma from arterial blood that flows out of the arterioles and into the capillaries, and then flows into the spaces between the cells of the tissues. This fluid delivers nutrients, oxygen, and hormones to the cells and 90% of it return to the bloodstream.

Lymph

Makes up the remaining 10% of the returning interstitial fluid. It is a clear, watery fluid containing electrolytes and proteins. It plays essential roles in the lymphatic system as it works in close cooperation with the immune system. It collects the protein molecules created within the cells as it leaves. ████ also removes dead cells, debris, and pathogens (including cancer cells) from the intercellular spaces. After entering the lymphatic system the █████ enters very small capillaries within the tissues and then flows into progressively larger vessels and ducts as it travels in a one-way trip upward toward the neck. It plays an active role in the immune system in protecting the body. (LIMF)

Lymphatic circulatory system/ Secondary circulatory system

The system in which the lymph moves upwards towards the neck through the pumping motion of muscles.

Lymphatic capillaries

Microscopic, blind-ended (sealed on one end) tubes located near the surface of the body with capillary walls that are only one cell in thickness. These cells separate briefly to allow the lymph to enter the capillary. Then the action of the cells as they close forces the lymph to flow upward and forward

Arteriole

Small artery

Venule

Small vein

Lymphatic vessels

Lymph flows from lymphatic capillaries to larger █████ which are located deeper within the tissues and have valves to prevent backward flow. These vessels flow into larger ducts.

Right lymphatic duct

Collects lymph from the right side of the head and neck, the upper right quadrant of the body, and the right arm. It empties into the right subclavian vein.

subclavian vein

vein that is the proximal part of the main vein of the arm.

Thoracic duct

The largest lymphatic vessel in the body, collects lymph from the left side of the head and neck, the upper left quadrant of the trunk, the left arm, the entire lower portion of the trunk, and both legs. It empties into the left subclavian vein

Lymph Nodes

Small, bean-shaped structures found along the lymphatic vessels that contain specialized lymphocytes and other structures that filter the lymph before becoming a part of the venous circulation. There are around 400-700 of them with most found in the abdomen.

Cervical lymph nodes

Lymph nodes found along the sides of the neck

cervic

Word part meaning neck

Axillary lymph nodes

Lymph nodes located under the arms in the armpits

axill

Word part meaning armpit

Inguinal lymph nodes

Lymph nodes located in the groin area

inguin

Word part meaning groin

Lymphocytes/ lymphoid cells

Leukocytes that are formed in the bone marrow as stem cells and work to fight pathogens. Three main types are T Cells, B Cells, and Natural Killer Cells.

Antigen

Any substance that the body regards as being foreign, including virus, bacteria, toxins, and transplanted tissue.

Maturation

Process of becoming mature

Differentiation

To be modified to perform a specific function

Natural Killer Cells

Leukocytes that play an important role in the immune system by killing cancer and infected cells. (NK)

B Cells/ B lymphocytes

Specialized lymphocytes that produce antibodies after being activated and turning into a plasma cell. There is a specific cell for each type of antigen.

Plasma Cells

activated B-cells which secrete a large amount of antibodies.

T Cells/ T lymphocytes

Lymphocytes that play an important role in cell-mediated immunity by releasing Interferons, and Interleukin.

Cytokines

A group of proteins such as interferons and interleukins released primarily by the T cells. These cells act as intracellular signals to begin the immune response.

Interferons

Cytokines produced in response to the presence of antigens, particularly viruses or tumor cells. █████ activate the immune system, fight viruses by slowing or stopping their multiplication, and signal other cells to increase their defenses. (IFNs)

Interleukins

Cytokines that play multiple roles in the immune system, including directing B and T cells to divide and proliferate.

Lymphoid

Pertaining to the lymphatic system or resembling lymph or lymphatic tissue.

Tonsils

Three masses of lymphoid tissue that form a protective ring around the back of the nose and upper throat. They play an important role in the immune system by preventing pathogens from entering the respiratory system when one breathes through the nose and mouth.

Adenoids/ nasopharyngeal tonsils

Mass of lymphoid tissue found in the nasopharynx, which is the upper part of the pharynx.

Palatine tonsils

Mass of lymphoid tissue located on the left and right sides of the throat in the area that is visible at the back of the mouth.

Palatine

Hard and soft palates that form the roof of the mouth

Lingual tonsils

Mass of lymphoid tissue located at the base of the tongue; however, they are not readily visible.

Lingual

Pertaining to the tongue

Thymus

A mass of lymphoid tissue located above the heart, reaches its greatest size at puberty and becomes smaller with age. It secretes a hormone that stimulates the maturation of lymphocytes into T cells. (Murder University)

Vermiform appendix/ appendix

Hangs from the lower portion of the cecum, which is the first section of the large intestine. Although its purpose was unknown for many years, recent research indicates that it may play an important role in the immune system.

Spleen

A sac-like mass of lymphoid tissue located in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen, just inferior to (below) the diaphragm and posterior to (behind) the stomach. It filters the blood and forms lymphocytes and monocytes. It is hemolytic, so it destroys worn out erythrocytes. Also stores some extra blood to maintain balance.

Hemolytic

Destroying worn-out erythrocytes (red blood cells) and releasing their hemoglobin for reuse.

• Pathogens: disease-producing microorganisms.

• Allergens: substances that produce allergic reactions.

• Toxins: poisonous or harmful substances.

• Malignant cells: potentially life-threatening cancer cells.

The immune system protects from harmful substances such as (4 substance)

• Intact skin: prevents pathogens from entering and is covered in an acid mantle which creates a hostile environment.

• Respiratory system: nose hair, mucous membrane, tonsil protection, coughing and sneezing.

• Digestive system: kills pathogens through acids and enzymes.

• Lymphatic system: specialized leukocytes

What are the first lines of defense of the immune system. (4)

Antigen-antibody reaction/ immune reaction

This reaction labels a potentially dangerous antigen so it can be recognized and destroyed by other cells of the immune system. It involves the binding of antigens to antibodies. The immune system immediately responds to the presence of any antigen

Tolerance

Unresponsiveness to a specific antigen. The term is also used to describe a decline in the effective response to a drug, usually due to repeated use.

Antibody/ Immunoglobulin

Disease-fighting protein created by the immune system in response to the presence of a specific antigen. They bind with specific antigens in the antigen–antibody response.

Immunoglobulin G

The most abundant class of antibodies, and is found in blood and lymph. These antibodies are active against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and foreign particles. (Ig█)

Immunoglobulin A

A class of antibodies produced predominantly against ingested antigens. These antibodies are found in body secretions such as saliva, sweat, or tears, and they function to prevent the attachment of viruses and bacteria to the epithelial surfaces that line most organs. (Ig█)

Immunoglobulin M

Antibodies that are found in circulating body fluids. These are the first antibodies to appear in response to an initial exposure to an antigen. (Ig█)

Immunoglobulin D

Antibodies found only on the surface of B cells. These antibodies are important in B cell activation. (Ig█)

Immunoglobulin E

Antibodies produced in the lungs, skin, and mucous membranes. These antibodies are responsible for allergic reactions.(Ig█)

Phagocytes

Specialized leukocytes that act as part of the antigen–antibody reaction by destroying substances such as cell debris, dust, pollen, and pathogens by Swallowing them.

Phagocytosis

process of destroying pathogens by surrounding and swallowing them. █████ include monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, and mast cells.

phag/o

Word part meaning eat or swallow

Monocytes

Leukocytes that provide immunological defenses against many infectious organisms. When █████ leave the bloodstream and enter the tissue, they become macrophages and dendritic cells.

Macrophage

A type of leukocyte that surrounds and kills invading cells. They also remove dead cells and stimulate the action of other immune cells.

macro-

Word part meaning Large

-phage

Word part meaning cell that eats

Dendritic cells

Specialized leukocytes that patrol the body searching for antigens that produce infections. When such a cell is found, the █████ cell grabs it, swallows it, and alerts B and T cells to act against this specific antigen.

Complement system

A group of proteins that normally circulate in the blood in an inactive form. When needed, these cells complement the ability of antibodies to ward off pathogens by combining with them to dissolve and remove pathogenic bacteria and other foreign cells.

Complement

Word that meaning to complete or make whole

Immunity

State of being resistant to a specific disease. This resistance can be present naturally, or it can be acquired.

Natural Immunity/ Passive Immnunity

Resistance to a disease present without the administration of an antigen or exposure to a Disease. It is present at birth, and can be augmented when breast milk passes from a nursing mother to her baby.

Acquired immunity

Immunity obtained by having had a contagious disease. Being vaccinated against a contagious disease provides protection against that disease, such as measles or polio, without the risks of the actual disease.

Vaccine/ Vaccination

A preparation containing an antigen, consisting of whole or partial disease-causing organisms, which have been killed or weakened. It is injected into the body to train it for future invasions.

mRNA vaccine

A vaccine that contains genetic instructions for a surface protein from the target virus. The vaccine instructs cells to create the protein, which the body recognizes as foreign, and then builds antibodies against it.

Allergist

Specialist in diagnosing and treating conditions of altered immunologic reactivity, such as allergic reactions.

Infectious disease specialist

A physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases caused by microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites.

Immunologist

Specialist in diagnosing and treating disorders of the immune system.

immun

Word part meaning protected

Lymphologist

A physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the lymphatic system.

Lymphadenitis/ swollen glands

Inflammation of the lymph nodes (lymph glands). The swelling is an indication of an infection.

Lymphadenopathy

Any disease process affecting a lymph node or nodes

lymphaden/o

Word part meaning lymph node

Lymphangioma

A benign tumor formed by an abnormal collection of lymphatic vessels due to a congenital malformation of the lymphatic system

Ruptured spleen

A medical emergency that occurs when the covering of the spleen is torn, usually as the result of a blow to the abdomen.

Splenomegaly

Abnormal enlargement of the spleen. This condition can be due to bleeding caused by an injury, and infectious disease such as mononucleosis, or abnormal functioning of the immune system.

Tonsillitis

Inflammation of the tonsils

Tonsillectomy

Surgical removal of the tonsils.

Lymphoscintigraphy

A diagnostic test that is performed to detect damage or malformations of the lymphatic vessels. A radioactive substance is injected into lymph ducts, and a scanner or probe is used to follow the movement of the substance on a computer screen.

Lymphedema

Swelling of the tissues due to an abnormal accumulation of lymph fluid within the tissues. It is caused by damage to the lymphatic system that prevents lymph from draining properly. Because lymph is rich in protein, which is an environment that pathogens thrive in, often associated with infections. (LE)

edema

Word part meaning swelling

Primary lymphedema

A hereditary condition of the lymphatic system that develops with swelling beginning in the feet and progressing into the ankles and in an upward direction along the legs. The disorder occurs most frequently in females, and the symptoms begin to appear during puberty.

Secondary lymphedema

Swelling caused by damage to lymphatic vessels that is most frequently due to cancer treatment, surgery, trauma, or burns.

Compression (Through specialized clothing or bandages to improve circulation) and Exercise.

Ways Primary and Secondary lymphedema are treated.

Bioimpedance spectroscopy

A noninvasive method of diagnosing lymphedema. It measures the resistance to an electrical current passed through the affected limb, with abnormally low results showing a buildup of lymph. If this condition can be diagnosed with this technique at an early stage, there is hope that it will not develop any further.

• General Health: Poor health causes the system not to work effectively

• Age: Older people have more acquired immunity, but they tend to respond less quickly. Younger children have less acquired immunity and thus have difficulty resisting challenges.

• Heredity: Genes and genetic disorders affect the individual’s general health and the functioning of his or her immune system.

Factors that have an effect on a person’s immune system.

Allergic reaction

Body’s immune system reacts to a harmless substance such as pollen, food, or animal dander as if it were a dangerous invader.

Allergy/ Hypersensitivity

Overreaction by the body to a particular antigen

Allergen

Substance that produces allergic reaction

Localized allergic response/ Cellular response

Redness, itching, and burning where the skin has come into contact with an allergen. For example, contact with poison ivy can cause a localized allergic response in the form of an itchy rash. Although the body reacts mildly the first time it is exposed to the allergen, sensitivity is established, and future contacts can cause much more severe symptoms.

Systemic reaction/ Anaphylaxis/ Anaphylactic shock

Severe response to an allergen. Symptoms of this response develop quickly. Without prompt medical aid, the patient can die within a few minutes. Symptoms include constricted bronchi, redness, hives, hypotension, itchiness, ect.

Scratch test

A diagnostic test to identify commonly troublesome allergens such as tree pollen and ragweed. Swelling and itching indicate an allergic reaction.

Allergen-specific immunoglobulin E

Blood test which is sometimes used to determine whether a person is allergic to a particular substance. (IgE test)

Antihistamines

Medications administered to relieve or prevent the symptoms of allergy to wind-borne pollens and other types of allergies. They work by preventing tching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes of an allergic reaction.

Histamine

Substance produced by the body that causes the itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes of an allergic reaction which is prevented by Antihistamines.

Autoimmune disorder/disease

A large group of diseases characterized by a condition in which the immune system produces antibodies against its own tissues, mistaking healthy cells, tissues, or organs for antigens. It appears to be genetically transmitted and occurs predominately in women during childbearing years.

• Skeletal: Rheumatoid arthritis affects joints and connective tissue.

• Muscular: Myasthenia gravis affects nerve and muscle synapses

• Cardiovascular: Pernicious anemia affects the red blood cells.

• Digestive: Crohn’s disease affects the intestines, ileum, or the colon.

• Nervous: Multiple sclerosis affects the brain and spinal cord.

• Integumentary: Scleroderma affects the skin and connective tissues.

• Endocrine: Graves’ disease affects the thyroid gland.

Examples of Autoimmune disorders of some body systems

• Skeletal

• Muscular

• Cardiovascular

• Digestive

• Nervous

• Integumentary

• Endocrine

Immunodeficiency disorder

Disorder in which the immune response is compromised.