Functions of the Lymphatic System

These flashcards cover the key concepts and functions of the lymphatic system, its role in immunity, and the basic cellular components involved in immune responses.

Lymphatic System

A network that collects and returns excessive interstitial fluid to the blood, helps with immunity, and absorbs dietary lipids.

Immunity

The body's ability to recognize and combat foreign substances, facilitated by the lymphatic system.

Fluid Recovery

The process by which the lymphatic system absorbs excess interstitial fluid and returns it to the bloodstream.

Lymph Nodes

Small, bean-shaped structures that filter lymph and activate immune responses by housing lymphocytes.

Lymphatic Capillaries

Small, thin-walled vessels that absorb lymph from surrounding tissues.

Lymph

Clear, colorless fluid similar to plasma but containing fewer proteins, that circulates through the lymphatic system.

Lacteals

Specialized lymphatic capillaries in the small intestine that absorb dietary lipids.

Thymus

An organ where T cells mature and develop, crucial for the adaptive immune response.

Spleen

The largest lymphatic organ, involved in blood filtration, immune responses, and blood storage.

Antigens

Any substance that triggers an immune response, typically proteins or polysaccharides.

Monocytes

White blood cells that differentiate into macrophages to engulf and destroy pathogens.

Phagocytosis

The process by which certain cells engulf and digest pathogens or debris.

Helper T Cells

A type of T cell that assists in activating both the cellular and humoral immune responses.

Memory Cells

Long-lived immune cells that respond more rapidly upon re-exposure to the same antigen.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by plasma cells that bind to specific antigens to neutralize or mark them for destruction.

Neutrophils

White blood cells that migrate to sites of infection to engulf pathogens via phagocytosis.

Inflammation

A local defensive response to tissue injury or infection, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain.