Major Structures

Related Combining Forms

Primary Functions

Lymph

lymph/o

The fluid that removes cellular waste products,

pathogens, and dead blood cells from the tissues

Lymphatic Vessels

lymphangi/o

The capillaries, vessels, and ducts that return lymph

and Ducts from the tissues to the venous bloodstream

Lymph Nodes

lymphaden/o

Bean-shaped structures of the lymphatic system

where pathogens and other harmful substances are filtered from the lymph by specialized cells of the

immune system

Tonsils and Adenoids

tonsill/o

adenoid/o

Lymphoid structures of the lymphatic system that protect the entry to the respiratory system

Spleen

splen/o (note: this combining form is spelled with only one “e”)

A sac-like mass of lymphoid tissue with protective

combining form is roles in both the immune and lymphatic systems

Bone Marrow

myel/o

Produces lymphocytes, which are specialized leukocytes (white blood cells). Myel/o also means

spinal cord

Lymphocytes

lymphocyt/o

Specialized leukocytes that play important roles in immune reactions.

thymus

thym/o

A gland located in the upper chest with specialized

roles in both the lymphatic and immune systems.