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These flashcards cover key concepts related to the lymphatic system and its relationship with the immune system, emphasizing definitions and functions critical for understanding the material.
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Lymphatic System
A network of vessels, tissues, and organs that help maintain fluid balance and play a crucial role in the immune system.
Interstitial Fluid
Fluid found in the spaces between cells; originates from blood plasma and facilitates nutrient exchange.
Filtration Pressure
The pressure in capillaries that pushes fluids out into interstitial spaces; driven by blood pressure.
Oncotic Pressure
The pressure exerted by plasma proteins that pulls water back into the capillaries.
Edema
Swelling caused by excess fluid accumulation in tissues, often due to imbalances in fluid return to the circulation.
Lymph
Fluid that collects in lymphatic capillaries, originating from interstitial fluid; carries immune cells and foreign particles.
Lymphatic Capillaries
Small, dead-ended vessels that collect lymph from interstitial spaces.
Lymph Nodes
Small structures of the lymphatic system that filter lymph and serve as sites for immune cell communication and proliferation.
Antigen
Any substance that prompts an immune response, such as parts of pathogens.
Lymphocytes
White blood cells within the lymphatic system that play critical roles in the immune response, including B cells and T cells.
B Lymphocytes
A type of lymphocyte that produces antibodies and matures in bone marrow.
T Lymphocytes
A type of lymphocyte that matures in the thymus; involved in cell-mediated immunity.
Cisterna Chyli
A dilated sac that collects lymph from the lower body and intestines before it enters the thoracic duct.
Thoracic Duct
The largest lymphatic vessel, which drains lymph into the venous circulation at the left subclavian vein.
Right Lymphatic Duct
Drains lymph from the right upper body into the venous system.
Natural Killer Cells
A type of lymphocyte that provides rapid responses to virally infected cells and tumors.
Macrophage
A type of immune cell that engulfs and digests cellular debris and pathogens; crucial for initiating immune responses.
Helper T Cells
T lymphocytes that help activate other lymphocytes and enhance the immune response.
Cytotoxic T Cells
T lymphocytes that are effective in killing infected or cancerous cells.