Chapter 7: Lymphatic System

What are the main functions of the lymphatic system?

Absorb excess interstitial fluid, absorb fats, produce and distribute lymphocytes, and defend against pathogens.

What type of fluid do lymphatic vessels carry?

Lymph, which contains white blood cells and waste products.

What are the primary lymphatic organs?

Red bone marrow and thymus.

What do lymph nodes do?

Filter lymph and trap pathogens.

What is the primary role of the spleen in the lymphatic system?

Filters blood and removes old red blood cells.

What are the characteristics of innate immunity?

No prior exposure needed, immediate response, no immunologic memory.

What composes the first line of defense in the immune system?

Physical and chemical barriers, such as intact skin and mucous membranes.

What is the inflammatory response and its key symptoms?

A reaction to infection involving redness, heat, swelling, and pain.

What do neutrophils and macrophages do in the immune response?

They are key cells that eat bacteria.

What triggers the release of histamine during inflammation?

The immune response to an infection.

What is the complement system?

(Antimicrobial proteins) A multi-purpose defense system that triggers histamine release and attracts phagocytes.

What is the difference between active and passive immunity?

Active immunity is when the body produces antibodies, while passive immunity is when antibodies are given to an individual.

What are antigens?

Markers that help identify self vs. non-self cells, usually protein-based.

What is humoral immunity?

A part of the adaptive immune response that targets extracellular antigens using B cells.

What is a key characteristic of the adaptive immune response?

It is the third line of defense and is highly specific.

What is the primary response in terms of antibody production?

The initial immune response to an antigen during the first exposure.

What can cause anaphylactic shock?

An immediate allergic response induced by IgE and histamine release.

What is SCID?

A genetic disorder that results in the lack of both humoral and cell-mediated immune systems.

What role do immunosuppressive drugs play in organ transplantation?

They help reduce the risk of rejection of the transplanted organ.

What can cause autoimmune disorders?

Cytotoxic T cells and antibodies attacking the body's own cells, cause is unknown.