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2023 Applied Science Extended Certificate - D* Grade Outstanding Assignment
- Institution
- PEARSON (PEARSON)
UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT OF DISORDER ON THE PHYSIOLOGY OF THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM AND THE ASSOCIATED CORRECTIVE TREATMENT
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Unit 8: Physiology of Human Body Systems Assignment BUNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT OF DISORDER ON THE
PHYSIOLOGY OF THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM AND THE
ASSOCIATED CORRECTIVE TREATMENT
Course: BTEC Extended Certificate Applied Science Unit 8B
[1]
, Unit 8: Physiology of Human Body Systems Assignment B
Impact of lymphatic disorder and associated treatments
Abstract
The lymphatic system is an essential component of the human immune system,
responsible for the transportation and filtration of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. The
system is comprised of a network of lymphatic vessels and organs that work together to
defend the body against infection and disease.
The lymphatic vessels are a series of thin-walled tubes that are found throughout the
body. These vessels are responsible for the transportation of lymphatic fluid, which is a clear,
colourless liquid that is essentially the extracellular fluid that has leaked from the blood
vessels. Lymphatic fluid flows through the lymphatic vessels, which run parallel to the veins,
and is eventually drained into the bloodstream.
The lymphatic system also includes several lymphatic organs, which play an
important role in the immune response. These organs include the lymph nodes, thymus,
spleen, and tonsils. The lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are found
throughout the body and act as a filter for lymphatic fluid. Lymphatic fluid enters the lymph
nodes and is filtered by immune cells, which remove any foreign particles or pathogens that
may be present.
The thymus gland is in the upper chest and is responsible for the production of T-
cells, which are an important component of the immune system. T-cells are responsible for
recognising and destroying infected cells and foreign particles within the body.
The spleen is another important lymphatic organ that acts as a filter for blood. The
spleen removes old and damaged red blood cells from circulation and produces white blood
cells that are important for fighting infection.
The tonsils are a pair of small organs located at the back of the throat. They play an
important role in the immune response by trapping bacteria and viruses that are inhaled
through the mouth and nose.
Overall, the lymphatic system plays a critical role in maintaining the health of the
human body. It is responsible for the transportation and filtration of lymphatic fluid, as well
as the production of immune cells and the removal of harmful particles and pathogens.
Without the lymphatic system, the body would be much more susceptible to infection and
disease, and the immune response would be severely compromised.
[2]
, Unit 8: Physiology of Human Body Systems Assignment B
Background
The lymphatic system will be examined in the report that follows, with particular
attention paid to the physiology of the lymphatic system and the associated corrective
treatment. Evidence relating to the lymphatic system will be presented alongside a patient
case study evaluating the effect of corrective treatments on Hodgkin’s Lymphoma disorder
and the reasons behind the choice of treatments including benefits and problems. The report
will further include signs and symptoms of Hodgkin Lymphoma in conjunction with the
effects of the disorder on normal lymphatic function.
Diagrams illustrating the anatomy of the lymphatic system and detailed description of
normal lymphatic functions will also be presented.
Introduction
The lymphatic system is an essential component of the human body's immune system,
responsible for filtering and draining excess fluid from tissues. However, severe impairment
or absence of lymphatic function can result in debilitating conditions such as lymphedema.
Lymphedema arises from a disruption to the lymphatic system, leading to the accumulation
of lymphatic fluid and swelling in affected limbs or areas.
The disorder results in a dysfunctional lymphatic system, leading to decreased fluid
drainage, immune function, and ultimately reduced quality of life for the patient. Current
treatment options for lymphedema include compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage,
and surgical interventions such as lymph node transfer or vascularised lymph node
transplantations. It is crucial to understand the impact of lymphedema on the physiology of
the lymphatic system and associated treatment options to manage this chronic condition
effectively and improve patients' overall well-being. Furthermore, an in-depth comprehension
of the underlying pathophysiology is paramount for developing novel therapies that can
combat lymphedema effectively.
In summary, lymphedema results in a malfunctioning lymphatic system, leading to
impaired fluid drainage and decreased immune function. Various treatments are available, but
it is vital to understand the underlying pathophysiology for effective management. This
understanding can also aid in developing improved treatments to enhance the quality of life
for those affected by this chronic condition.
Unlike the cardiovascular system, which is closed, this system is open. The primary
job of the circulatory system in the body is to convey blood to all body organs, tissues, and
cells.
[3]
, Unit 8: Physiology of Human Body Systems Assignment B
Each capillary filters and transports an average of 20 litters of blood per day. The
main jobs of the capillaries are to transport waste away from the body's cells and tissues and
deliver oxygenated blood to the cells and tissues. Carbon dioxide and garbage are the cells'
end results. The blood plasma, which has a yellow tint, is where this waste builds up. The
capillaries, which form up to three litters of the blood being delivered and this is the fluid,
also separate the plasma from the blood. The 3-liter plasma has a return path to the blood
through the lymphatic system, which allows for its operation.
Structure and function of the Lymphatic system (1a)
The body's lymphatic system is a network of tiny tubes. It removes fluid referred to as
lymph that has seeped into the tissues from the blood arteries and returns it to the
bloodstream via the lymph nodes. The lymphatic system's primary functions are controlling
the body's fluid balance and responding to germs, cancer cells, and cell by products that may
otherwise cause sickness or diseases, some of the lipids in our food are absorbed from the
gut.
Lymphocytes are specialised white blood cells that are found in the lymph nodes and
other lymphatic organs including the spleen and thymus. In reaction to bacteria, viruses, and
a variety of other stimuli from dead or dying cells and improperly behaving cells like cancer
cells, these can grow quickly and release antibodies.
The lymphatic fluid leaves the lymph nodes and travels through efferent lymphatic
collecting vessels, bigger lymphatic trunks, and finally the lymphatic ducts. The lymphatic
ducts have an aperture at the junction of the subclavian and internal jugular veins that allows
lymphatic fluid to enter the venous system on both sides.
The lymphatic system consists of the following, as illustrated in the diagram below.
[4]
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