The Lymphatic System and Lymphoid Organs and Tissues

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to the Lymphatic System and related organs and tissues.

Lymphatic System

A network that returns fluids leaked from blood vessels back to circulation.

Lymph Nodes

Distributed throughout the body, lymph nodes filter lymph and activate the immune response.

Lymph

Fluid that circulates through lymphatic vessels, derived from interstitial fluid.

Lymphatic Vessels

Vessels that carry lymph, ensuring it flows in one direction toward the heart.

Lacteals

Specialized lymphatic capillaries in the intestinal mucosa that absorb digested fats.

Lymphedema

Severe localized swelling caused by the blockage of lymphatic vessels.

Thymus

A primary lymphoid organ where T cells mature; most active during childhood.

T Cells

Type of lymphocyte involved in managing the immune response and attacking infected cells.

B Cells

Lymphocytes that produce plasma cells to secrete antibodies.

MALT

Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, which protects mucous membranes from pathogens.

Spleen

The largest lymphoid organ that filters blood, recycles iron, and produces lymphocytes.

Macrophages

Cells that phagocytize foreign substances and help activate T cells.

Dendritic Cells

Cells that capture antigens and transport them to lymph nodes to activate T cells.

Reticular Cells

Supporting cells in lymphoid tissues that produce reticular fibers.

Peyer's Patches

Aggregated lymphoid nodules in the wall of the small intestine that help respond to pathogens.

Tonsils

Lymphoid organs located around the pharynx that gather and remove pathogens in food or air.