Lymph Organs & Nodules

Besides lymph nodes, what other organs are part of the lymphatic system?

The spleen and thymus; they protect the body from infection but do not filter lymph.

How do lymph nodules differ structurally from lymph nodes and organs?

Lymph nodules are not surrounded by a capsule and are loosely associated with tissue.

Where is the spleen located?

In the upper left part of the abdomen.

What are the two main types of tissue in the spleen and their functions?

• White pulp: Lymphatic tissue that filters blood

• Red pulp: Removes worn-out RBCs and stores blood

What is the thymus' role in the lymphatic and endocrine systems?

It educates T-lymphocytes to recognize foreign invaders and releases thymosin to regulate T-cell production.

What are lymph nodules associated with?

Mucous membranes where foreign invaders can get trapped.

What does MALT stand for, and where is it found?

Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue; found scattered or bundled in mucous membranes.

What is the function of the tonsils?

Form a protective ring around the throat to guard against invaders from the nose or mouth.

What are Peyer’s Patches and the appendix responsible for?

Filtering bacteria from food and preventing intestinal bacteria from causing infection elsewhere in the body.

What’s the key structural difference between lymph organs and lymph nodules?

Lymph organs are encapsulated; lymph nodules are not.