Chapter 16: Lymphatic System and Immunity

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the lymphatic system and immunity.

Lymphatic System

A network that works closely with the cardiovascular system to transport excess tissue fluid to the bloodstream, transport dietary fat, and help defend against pathogens.

Thymus Gland

A primary organ of the lymphatic system responsible for the maturation of T cells.

Lymphatic Pathways

Start as lymphatic capillaries, leading to afferent lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, efferent lymphatic vessels, lymphatic trunks, and eventually to collecting ducts.

Afferent Lymphatic Vessels

Vessels that carry lymph to lymph nodes.

Efferent Lymphatic Vessels

Vessels that carry lymph away from lymph nodes.

Lymphatic Capillaries

Microscopic closed-ended tubes that extend into interstitial spaces, receiving lymph through their thin walls.

Edema

Accumulation of excess interstitial fluid leading to swelling of tissues.

Lymph Formation

The process where increasing protein concentration in interstitial spaces forces tissue fluid into lymphatic capillaries.

Phagocytosis

The process by which specialized cells engulf and ingest foreign particles to destroy them.

Natural Killer Cells (NK Cells)

A type of special lymphocyte that attacks microbes, cancer cells, and other abnormal cells.

Antigens

Substances that cause the formation of antibodies and react specifically with those antibodies.

Immunoglobulins

Proteins produced by B cells that function as antibodies.

Memory T Cells

T cells produced upon first exposure to an antigen, allowing for immediate response upon subsequent exposure.

Autoimmunity

A condition in which the body produces antibodies against its own tissues.

Adaptive Immunity

The specific immune response that protects against particular pathogens, involving T cells and B cells.

Humoral Immune Response

The immune response involving B cells that produce antibodies against specific antigens.

Collecting Ducts

Large lymphatic vessels that collect lymph from lymphatic trunks and empty it into subclavian veins.

Interferons

Proteins produced by uninfected cells in response to viruses that help to interfere with viral replication.

Complement System

A group of proteins that enhances the ability of antibodies to clear pathogens from an organism.

Tissue Fluid

Blood plasma that has passed through capillary walls into interstitial spaces.

Lymph Nodes

Small, bean-shaped structures that filter lymph and contain lymphocytes and macrophages to fight infection.