CCMA training notes: Lymphatic System Review

What is the function of the lymphatic system?

Works closely with the cardiovascular system to move lymph and lymph cells throughout the body.

How does lymphatic circulation operate?

It depends on the pumping action of muscles and flows in only one direction.

What is lymph?

Filtered interstitial fluid collected by lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels.

Where does the Right Lymphatic Duct collect lymph from?

Right side of the head and neck, upper right quadrant of the body, and right arm.

Where does the Thoracic Duct collect lymph from?

Left side of the head and neck, upper left quadrant of the trunk, left arm, lower trunk, and both legs.

What is the role of lymph nodes in the lymphatic system?

Filter lymph and contain specialized lymphocytes that destroy pathogens.

What are the 3 major groups of lymph nodes?

1. Cervical

2. Axillary

3. Inguinal lymph nodes.

What are lymphatic capillaries?

Microscopic tubes that allow lymph to enter and are sealed at one end.

What is the significance of lymphatic vessels?

They are larger vessels containing valves that prevent back-flow of lymph.

Which are the 2 lymphatic ducts and what distinguishes them?

1. Right Lymphatic Duct draining the right upper quadrant (right arm and right side of the head and neck)

2. Thoracic Duct drains the rest of the body.  

What are lymphocytes?

Lymph cells formed in bone marrow that defend against pathogens.

What are the 3 types of lymphocytes?

1. Natural killer (NK) cells

2. B cells

3. T cells.

What role do Natural Killer (NK) cells play?

They kill cancer cells and cells infected by viruses.

What is the function of B-cells?

Produce specific antibodies that destroy specific antigens.

What is the main function of T-cells?

Play a role in cell-mediated immunity and release cytokines.

What are the tonsils?

Lymphoid tissues that prevent pathogens from entering the respiratory system.

What is the function of the thymus gland?

Stimulates the maturation of lymphocytes into T-cells.

What are the 3 functions of the spleen?

1. Filters microorganisms from the blood

2. Forms lymphocytes and monocytes

3. Destroys worn-out erythrocytes.

What are antigen-antibody reactions?

Reactions where antibodies bind to antigens, labeling them as dangerous.

What are immunoglobulins?

Proteins that bind to specific antigens in the immune response.

What do phagocytes do?

Destroy cell debris, dust, pollen, and pathogens.

What triggers an allergic reaction?

An overreaction to allergens such as pollen or animal dander.

What characterizes autoimmune disorders?

The immune system produces antibodies against its own tissues.

What is hypersplenism?

An overactive spleen that removes blood cells too early.

What does splenomegaly indicate?

Enlargement of the spleen due to various underlying conditions, which can lead to increased destruction of blood cells and other complications.

What 4 conditions can cause splenomegaly?

1. infections

2. leukemia

3. lymphoma

4. liver disease.

What is lymphedema?

Swelling due to abnormal accumulation of lymph fluid.

What is the role of the skin in the immune system?

Acts as the body's first line of defense against foreign substances.

How does the respiratory system contribute to the immune response?

Traps foreign particles inhaled into the body.

How does the digestive system defend against pathogens?

Uses acids and enzymes created by the stomach.

What is a localized allergic response?

Redness, itching, or burning where the skin has come into contact with an allergen.

What is systemic allergic response?

Causes a severe reaction, potentially leading to anaphylactic shock which affects the entire body and can be life-threatening.

What is a vaccine?

A substance designed to protect against disease by producing immunity.

How do vaccines work?

They stimulate the immune response to recognize and fight specific pathogens.

What are common causes of bacterial infections?

Organisms such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and E. coli.

What is are the 2 role of macrophages?

1. Surround + destroy invading cells

2. Remove dead cells.

What triggers the complement system?

The presence of pathogens that require enhanced immune response.

What 2 functions do dendritic cells do?

1. Patrol the body for antigens

2. Activate T + B cells upon detection.

What is HIV?

A human immunodeficiency virus that attacks immune system specifically T-cells, is transmitted through body fluids, and can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if untreated.

What is AIDS?

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, the most advanced stage of HIV infection characterized by a severely weakened immune system.

What is lymphadenopathy?

Any disease process that affects lymph nodes.

What is lymphangioma?

A benign tumor formed by an abnormal collection of lymphatic vessels.

What 4 symptoms are associated with tonsillitis?

1. Swollen tonsils

2. Sore throat

3. Difficulty swallowing

4. Tender lymph nodes.

What is Cellulitis?

A bacterial infection that causes painful, red areas on the skin.

What is Folliculitis?

An infection of hair follicles that causes red, swollen bumps.

What bacteria can cause food poisoning?

Examples include Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria monocytogenes.

What is the role of the immune system in cell defense?

Identifies and attacks pathogens that enter the body.

How do leukocytes react to infection?

They respond to threats by attacking and killing pathogens.

What is the importance of the thymus in immunity?

It is crucial for T-cell maturation during childhood and helps establish the adaptive immune response in the body.

How do antibodies respond to antigens?

They bind to antigens and help eliminate foreign substances.

What is the significance of interleukins in immunity?

They direct B + T cells to divide and proliferate during the immune response.

What is the function of cytokines in the immune system?

They facilitate communication between cells in the immune response.

How many types of immunoglobulins are there?

5

What type of lymphatic structure is the appendix and what does it play a role in?

A small pouch connected to the large intestine that contains lymphoid tissue and plays a role in immunity through the maturation of B cells.

What underlying conditions can lead to immunodeficiency?

• Genetic disorders

• infections like HIV

• Medical treatments like chemotherapy that affect the immune system. .