The Lymphatic System

Flashcards reviewing the key concepts of the lymphatic system.

What are two things that might indicate an issue with the lymphatic system?

Cancer spreading to the lymph nodes and swollen lymph nodes.

What is the tissue that capillaries are made of?

Simple squamous epithelium.

Why is simple squamous epithelium ideal for capillaries?

It is thin, allowing diffusion to take place for O2, CO2, nutrients, and waste.

Approximately how much fluid leaks from the capillaries into the tissues per day?

About three liters.

What does the lymphatic system do with the fluid that leaks from the capillaries?

It collects the lost fluid and returns it to the bloodstream after cleaning it.

What is the general function of the lymphatic system?

To collect and clean lost fluid from the blood then return it to the bloodstream, providing body defense.

What three components make up the lymphatic system?

Lymph, lymphatic vessels, and lymph nodes.

What is lymph?

The fluid that has entered a lymphatic vessel.

What are lymphatic vessels?

The 'railways' that transport lymph around the body.

What is the function of lymph nodes?

To clean the lymph.