Diddy
What are the two primary general functions of the lymphatic system?
Protecting from infections and keeping a normal balance of fluids. The system acts as both a defense and a drainage network.
Which specific type of white blood cell is released by the lymphatic system to kill "bad things"?
Lymphocytes. These are the primary "warrior" cells of the immune system.
White blood cells are born in the bone marrow, but where do T-cells go to specifically "mature" or finish their training?
The Thymus
How does the growth rate of lymphocytes change when someone has Lymphoma?
They grow too fast
How does the lymphatic system serve both the Circulatory system (blood) and the Immune system at the same time?
It returns fluid to the blood (circulatory) and releases lymphocytes (immune)
What is the specific name for the small intestine vessels that help absorb fats?
Lacteals. These are specialized lymphatic capillaries in the small intestine.
Where does the lymphatic system return extra fluid after collecting it from tissues?
The bloodstream
Lymph nodes don’t just filter germs; what "internal" threat do they help remove to prevent it from spreading?
Cancerous or damaged cells
Name two of the three specific bone types mentioned that house the "factory" for blood cells.
Hip, back, or breast bones
Besides germs, what does the lymphatic system "filter out" from the fluid it collects from your tissues?
Waste.
Where does the lymphatic system return extra fluid after collecting it from your tissues?
The bloodstream. It recycles the fluid back into circulation.
What are the structures in the small intestine called that help absorb fats?
Lacteals
If you felt a sharp pain just under your ribs on the left side, which lymphatic organ might be involved?
The Spleen
LAM involves smooth muscle cells moving to the lungs. What specific part of the lungs do they block?
The small airways
Why can you feel lymph nodes in your neck or armpits but not usually in your spleen?
Nodes in the neck/armpits are closer to the skin, whereas the spleen is deep under the ribs.
What is the short name for the fluid that drains from cells and tissues?
Lymph. Short for lymphatic fluid.
If the lymphatic system stopped putting fluid back into the bloodstream, what would happen to the balance of fluids in your tissues?
Fluid would build up in the tissues (causing swelling).
Why is it helpful for the tonsils to be the "first part" of the immune system to encounter germs?
They catch pathogens from air and food immediately as they enter.
How would a doctor distinguish Maulucci syndrome from a normal infection just by looking at the skin?
It causes hard cysts or abnormal lumps/tumors
which two rare conditions can cause fluid to build up specifically around the lungs?
LAM and Intestinal lymphangiectasia.
Approximately how many lymph nodes are located throughout the human body?
Around 600. They are scattered throughout the body
Why are lacteals necessary in the small intestine? (What do they help the body absorb?)
Fats.
In Lymphedema, what is the physical result of lymph fluid being unable to move past a damaged node?
Painful swelling and/or skin infections
How does Intestinal lymphangiectasia physically change the structure of the small intestine?
It makes the walls thicker.
Why is cancer treatment listed as a common cause for a specific lymphatic disorder?
Because it often involves removing or damaging lymph nodes, which creates blockages.