Lymphatic Vascular System

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the lymphatic vascular system and the circulatory system from the lecture notes.

Endocardium

The inner layer of the heart, composed of endothelium and subendothelial connective tissue.

Myocardium

The thick middle layer of the heart, made of cardiac muscle.

Epicardium

The outer layer of the heart, consisting of connective tissue and covered by mesothelium.

Cardiac Conducting System

A system that stimulates rhythmic contractions, consisting of the sino-atrial (SA) node, atrioventricular (AV) node, and Purkinje fibers.

Purkinje fibers

Specialized fibers in the heart that conduct impulses and are distinguished by larger diameter and abundant glycogen.

Vasculature

Refers to the system of blood vessels that transport blood throughout the body.

Endothelium

A layer of cells that lines the blood vessels and is involved in various functions including prevention of blood clotting.

Arteries

Blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart; categorized by size and wall composition.

Capillaries

Smallest blood vessels that allow for metabolic exchange between blood and surrounding tissues.

Venules

Small blood vessels that drain capillaries and lead to veins.

Lymphatic Vessels

Vessels that transport lymph, a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body.

Lymph

Fluid that drains from the interstitial space and enters lymphatic vessels.

Thoracic Duct

The largest lymphatic vessel that returns lymph to the circulatory system.

Lymph Edema

Swelling due to the accumulation of lymph fluid, often resulting from disruption of lymphatic drainage.

Continuous Capillaries

Capillaries that have tight junctions to restrict passage of materials.

Fenestrated Capillaries

Capillaries with small pores allowing greater molecular exchange.

Discontinuous Capillaries

Capillaries with larger lumens and spaces for cellular exchange.

Pericytes

Contractile cells surrounding capillaries that help regulate blood flow and can give rise to smooth muscle or connective tissue.