Introduction:
In this report, I will be identifying the structures and functions of the lymphatic system. I will
also be discussing disorders that are associated with the lymphatic system and how they
affect normal function. I will also be evaluating corrective treatments and how well they are
most likely to improve certain conditions.
Structure of the Lymphatic System
Name the Organ What is its Function?
Tonsils (a) Tonsils are thought to be an organ that is associated with
preventing an infection from happening within the digestive
and respiratory tracts by generating antibodies to attack
infective agents. Tonsillitis can occur when bacteria is
congested.
Thymus The thymus generates T-lymphocytes (T cells) which are
white blood cells. The thymus resumes the process of
, producing T cells from birth to adolescence. The thymus
makes hormones such as thymosin to help the T
lymphocytes.
Mammary Plexus A network of lymphatic vessels located in the walls of the
ducts. It functions to drain the skin, areola and nipple.
Thoracic Duct The role of the thoracic duct is to transport the lymph fluid into
the circulatory system.
Intestinal Lymph Node Lymph nodes filter lymph before it returns to the blood. Lymph
nodes contain 2 defence cells which are macrophages that
engulf and destroy foreign substances. The lymphocytes such
as T and B cells create an immune response to antigens.
Appendix The appendix contains lymphoid tissues that are able to
eliminate bacteria before they reach the intestine walls.
Inguinal Lymph Node The inguinal lymph node is able to drain substances
originating from the groin, rectal, penile and vulvar regions.
Axillary Lymph Node The axillary lymph nodes are responsible for draining lymph
originating from the breasts, neck and upper and under arms.
Spleen The spleen functions by storing and filtering blood. It also
produces white blood cells that protect the body from being
infected.
Small Intestine The small intestine has many responsibilities such as
regulating tissue fluid homeostasis, transport substances
such as fat and promoting immune surveillance.
Lymphatic Vessel Lymphatic vessels are a network of capillaries that are located
throughout the entire body to transport lymph fluid away from
the tissues. This is possible because the lymphatic vessels
collect and filter lymph as they travel towards the collecting
ducts.
Bone Marrow Bone marrow creates blood cells from stem cells. Stem cells
can also be used to create white blood cells known as
lymphocytes. The fully martyred lymphocytes in the bone
marrow are known as B cells/lymphocytes
Lymphatic Vessel Lymphatic vessels are a network of capillaries that are located
throughout the entire body to transport lymph fluid away from
the tissues. This is possible because the lymphatic vessels
collect and filter lymph as they travel towards the collecting
ducts.
The Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is a drainage system that provides an alternative pathway for the
transport of hormones, waste and nutrients. Lymph is a clear fluid. It returns some tissue
fluid to the heart as it cannot be returned but the veins . It is part of the immune and
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