The Lymphatic System and Lymphoid Organs and Tissues

Flashcards covering key concepts related to the lymphatic system and lymphoid organs from the lecture notes.

Lymphatic System

A network that returns excess fluids, known as lymph, back to the bloodstream, and provides structural basis for the immune system.

Lymph

A fluid that is collected from tissues and returned to the bloodstream by lymphatic vessels.

Lymph Nodes

Small, bean-shaped structures that filter lymph and house lymphocytes; critical for immune system activation.

Lymphatic Capillaries

Blind-ended vessels that collect interstitial fluid and are more permeable than blood capillaries.

Lacteals

Specialized lymphatic capillaries located in the small intestine that absorb and transport fats.

Spleen

The largest lymphoid organ that cleanses the blood, removes aged red blood cells, and provides a site for lymphocyte proliferation.

Thymus

A primary lymphoid organ where T-cells mature; it is most active during childhood.

Buboes

Infected lymph nodes that become swollen, often associated with the bubonic plague.

Mucosa-associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT)

Lymphoid tissues located in mucous membranes that guard the body's entry points against pathogens.

Antigen

Any substance that triggers an immune response, such as bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells.