The Lymphatic System

Vocabulary flashcards based on the learning objectives related to the lymphatic system.

Lymphatic System

A network that helps maintain fluid balance and plays a key role in immune function.

Lymph Nodes

Small structures that filter lymph and are involved in the immune response.

Thymus

An organ where T cells mature and become immunocompetent.

Lacteals

Lymphatic capillaries in the intestine that absorb lipids.

Chyle

The lymph fluid that is rich in fats and absorbed from the digestive tract.

Spleen

An organ that filters blood and removes old red blood cells.

MALT

Mucosa-associated lymphatic tissue involved in immune responses along mucosal surfaces.

Fluid Balance

Function of the lymphatic system that prevents excess interstitial fluid accumulation.

Immune Response

The body’s defense mechanism against foreign substances.

Pre-T Cells

Immature T cells that migrate to the thymus to mature.

B Cells

Type of lymphocyte that produces antibodies.

Lymphatic Vessels

Vessels that carry lymph away from tissues.

Lymphatic Capillaries

Small blind-ended vessels that collect lymph from interstitial fluid.

Lymphatic Trunks

Large vessels formed by the merging of lymphatic vessels that drain specific body areas.

Thoracic Duct

The main lymphatic duct that drains lymph from the left side of the body.

Right Lymphatic Duct

Drains lymph from the right side of the head, neck, and upper limb.

Interstitial Fluid

Fluid that surrounds tissue cells; excess amounts drain into lymphatic capillaries.

Valves

Structures in lymphatic vessels that ensure unidirectional flow of lymph.

Pre-B Cells

Immature B cells that form in the red bone marrow.

Macrophages

Cells that engulf and digest foreign materials and pathogens.

Dendritic Cells

Immune cells that present antigens to T cells.

Reticular Cells

Cells that provide structural support in lymphatic tissues.

Lymphatic Follicles

Dense aggregations of lymphatic tissue found in lymph nodes.

Cortex

Outer region of lymph nodes where lymphatic nodules are located.

Medulla

Inner region of lymph nodes containing medullary cords and sinuses.

Trabeculae

Connective tissue structures that support lymph nodes and the spleen.

Sinus

Spaces in lymph nodes through which lymph flows.

Red Bone Marrow

Primary lymphatic organ involved in the production of blood cells.

Lipid Absorption

The process by which fats are absorbed from the digestive tract via lacteals.

Afferent Vessels

Lymphatic vessels that carry lymph to lymph nodes.

Efferent Vessels

Lymphatic vessels that carry lymph away from lymph nodes.

Immunocompetent

Term describing lymphocytes that are capable of mounting an immune response.

Capsule

Connective tissue layer that surrounds lymph nodes and the spleen.

Filters Lymph

Function of lymph nodes that removes pathogens and foreign particles.